You hear the expression weak adrenals thrown around a lot if you’re in the health and fitness

community or reading books, blogs and listening to podcasts on health-related topics. It’s very

common that we, as everyday Americans and athletes/CrossFitters even more so, experience

varying levels of restful sleep, energy, digestive function, immunity and the ability to recover

from exercise.

Adrenal Fatigue, we have a close relationship with the condition of adrenal fatigue as we all

have suffered from it at varying levels.

Simple Truths of Exhaustion:

1. People who train hard and look lean are not always healthy.

2. Eating fat will not make you fat

3. Working out smarter, not harder is often the way to achieve performance and aesthetic

goals.

4. Sleep is the cornerstone of being able to eat well, train well and to allow the body to re-

set stress levels and lose body fat.

What is stress?

Stress is a specific response by the body to a stimulus, such as fear or pain that disturbs or

interferes with normal physiological equilibrium. Stress can be physical, mental or emotional

strain or tension and can be an occurrence (chronic or acute) or a causative factor in a state of

dis-ease. Key players in the endocrine game of stress & adrenal function:

Adrenal glands:

Two, triangular shaped glands that sit on top of your kidneys, consisting of an inner medulla

and an outer cortex. The adrenal medulla produces and secretes epinephrine (adrenaline, a

fast-acting hormone), norepinephrine (noradrenaline), and a small amount of dopamine in

response to stimulation by sympathetic preganglionic neurons. The adrenal cortex mediates the

stress response through the production of steroid hormones: mineralocorticoids and

glucocorticoids, including aldosterone and cortisol respectively as well as DHEA and sex

hormone precursors.

Cortisol:

The hormone released in response to any kind of systemic stress. Its primary functions are to

increase blood sugar through gluconeogenesis; suppress the immune system; and aid in fat,

protein and carbohydrate metabolism.

Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis (HPA Axis):

The system of communication between the neuro-endocrine glands that dictates our responses

to stress as well as our circadian rhythm.

Neurotransmitters, Excitatory & Inhibitory:

Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that transmit signals from neurons to their target

cells across synapses. The way each neurotransmitter is classified is based upon which

receptors they activate. Some typically excitatory neurotransmitters include glutamate,

dopamine, acetylcholine, epinephrine (adrenaline), norepinephrine (noradrenaline) and

histamine. Some typically inhibitory neurotransmitters include serotonin (95% of which is made

in the gut, according to Elizabeth Lipski), GABA, glycine and adenosine.

Hippocampus & Circadian Rhythm:

The gland that regulates circadian rhythm, our bodies’ roughly 24-hour cycle in biochemical,

physiological, and behavioral processes. When the neuro-endocrine pathways are well-

balanced… In a perfect world, we wouldn’t have extreme imbalances in this system of messages

at all. We might experience acute bouts of an imbalance, but we’d quickly come back to a

homeostasis and appropriate cortisol levels and rhythm throughout the day (high in the

morning, tapering off to low in the evening). In balance, we have adequate amounts of

serotonin in a healthy gut to promote the production of melatonin at night – the counter

regulatory hormone to cortisol that manages our sleep cycle while cortisol manages our wake

cycle. When we are able to fall asleep at night easily, wake up in the morning easily and feeling

rested and have good energy throughout the daytime, we are in good balance. When stress

takes over, that’s when the balance is lost.

How stress affects your system.

The diagram below illustrates a stress response we might have that we are aware of, such as a

traffic jam when we’re on our way to an important meeting. It’s important to note that similar

stressors can affect different people in different ways depending on the constitution of the

person as well as that person’s state of mental, emotional and physical well-being at the time

the stressor is introduced. For example, two people may be in the same traffic jam, but one is

perfectly happy to sit and listen to his Paleo Solution Podcast for an extra 20 minutes, while the

other is about to be late for an important job interview. The chain of events that happens in

reaction to the traffic jam in each person’s system will be very different as a result. Additionally,

this response can be happening on a systemic level on a daily basis if you are eating food that

you don’t tolerate – your weekly gluten-bomb cheats that you think aren’t so bad… they are.

and your body is trying to recover from the inflammation in your gut without reprieve.

A repeatedly excitatory response to this kind of stressor, or even a chronic internal stress such

as malnutrition or gut irritation/leaky gut, can push your immuno-endocrine system completely

off balance. It should become apparent just how critical our nutrition, proper doses of exercise,

gut health, thoughts, emotions, perceptions and reactions to life stressors really are when

we’re talking about keeping the messages being sent to our adrenal glands in check.

A Look at the Problem: It’s Not Your Adrenal Glands’ Fault

The single biggest contributing factor to adrenal fatigue (or an altered adrenal profile, as I like

to call it) is stress. It sounds simple enough, but the reality is that stress comes in so many

varieties and forms that it’s impossible to avoid all together. What we must do is identify the

forms that we can best control in our lives and work on making diet and lifestyle modifications

to work on lowering the stress-load on our systems. We can also work on finding better ways to

help our bodies to manage the stressors that we do experience that we cannot eliminate.

Contributors to the stress that leads to adrenal fatigue can be lifestyle stressors including but

not limited to: lack of sleep, poor food choices, use of stimulants, pulling “all-nighters” or

“pushing through” a day despite being tired, perfectionism, staying in no-win situations for too

long, over training, lack of fun or stress-relieving practices. Those who are: students, medical

professionals, single parents, unhappily married, unhappy or unsatisfied at work, are self-

employed or starting a new business, abuse drugs or alcohol, have alternating shift schedules or

who are the “all work and no play” types have lifestyles that lead to adrenal fatigue.

Furthermore, life events that can lead to adrenal fatigue include: unrelieved pressure or stress

at work, any crisis or severe emotional trauma, death of a loved one, major surgery, extended

or chronic illness, sudden change in life situations such as loss of a job or moving without much

friend or family support in a new location and repeated or extended chemical exposure.

(Wilson, 17-18) The problem of stress might not be such an issue if we weren’t compounding

many stressors over the course of days, weeks, months and years without much downtime for

our systems. So, while the condition of adrenal fatigue can come on suddenly as triggered by a

traumatic or severe life event, most commonly it is experienced after a gradual, cumulative

effect of multiple stressors.

If the adrenal glands ability to make cortisol is not to blame, then what is?

If a person has completed an Adrenal Salivary Index (sometimes called and Adrenal Stress Index

or ASI) test and there is output of cortisol over the course of the day that is not simply low at

each measured time, then the adrenals are capable of producing cortisol, they are just “off” in

how they are releasing it in response to the messages they receive from the Hypothalamus-

Pituitary-Adrenal Axis (HPA Axis). It’s pretty uncommon to see a test result that’s simply low

across the board, typically there’s at least one spike in a person’s levels. So, what does that

mean? The adrenals are doing what they’re asked to do by the higher order functions of our

bodies, but that may not be the desired action in terms of a healthy volume and balance for our

cortisol throughout the day.

This brings us back to the HPA Axis and our good friend, Balance.

The way we can bring our adrenal health back in line is to balance out the types of messages

our Hypothalamus is sending to our adrenal glands via the HPA Axis. Imagine this action is a bit

like a teeter totter…

Symptoms of an Altered Adrenal Profile

1. fatigue 2. inability to recover appropriately from exercise (you should feel tired

post-workout for MAYBE 20-30 minutes, then you should feel just fine – if you are dragging for hours or the rest of the day, you overdid it!)

3. headaches with physical or mental stress 4. weak immune system & allergies 5. slow to start in the morning 6. gastric ulcers 7. afternoon headaches 8. feeling full or bloated 9. craving sweets, caffeine or cigarettes 10. blurred vision 11. unstable behavior 12. becoming shaky or light-headed if meals are missed or delayed 13. cannot stay asleep or cannot fall asleep 14. dizziness when moving from sitting to standing or lying to standing 15. transient spells of dizziness 16. asthma, allergies 17. hemorrhoids, varicose veins

Body Temperature Test for Thyroid and Adrenal

You can determine your thyroid and adrenal status by following Dr. Rind with a temperature graph–

doing your Daily Average Temps. You simply take your temp 3 times a day, starting three hours after

you wake up, and every three hours after that, to equal three temps. (If you have eaten or exercised

right before it’s time to take your temp, wait 20 more minutes.) Then average them for that day. Do

this for AT LEAST 5 days. If your averaged temp is fluctuating from day to day more than .2 to

.3 (with a lean towards .2), you need adrenal support. Again, your daily average temps should lean

towards the .2 when on enough cortisol for your needs. Summary from Dr. Rind: If your temps are

fluctuating but overall low, you need more adrenal support and thyroid. If your temps are fluctuating

but averaging 98.6, you just need adrenal support. If it is steady but low, you need more thyroid and

adrenals are likely fine. (We note that mercury thermometers are the most accurate.)

For those already on cortisol, the above temperature test (comparing at LEAST 5 days of

averages) is ideal to know if you are on enough cortisol for you needs. In other words, if any

daily averaged temps are more than .2-.3 from another day’s temp, you are not on enough

cortisol, patients have learned (most of those daily averages should be .2 from each other).

Overshooting your cortisol supplementation can also cause this instability.

***Women: if you are still menstruating, it’s best to do your Daily Average Temps started at

the end of your period i.e. away from your mid-cycle or ovulation.

It is often possible to assess adrenal insufficiency

based upon symptoms. Anyone who is tired,

allergic, intolerant to cold, with symptoms of low

blood sugar such as craving sweets or starches, or

who is weak, or has low blood pressure most likely

has some degree of adrenal insufficiency.

Blood tests. These are variable and are

often absolutely normal. However, it is possible that

the serum sodium level is less than 130 mEq/L and

a serum potassium greater than 5 mEq/L. A low

glucose levels and elevated blood urea nitrogen

(BUN) may also be present. Other factors, however,

can affect the serum readings.

A blood test for adrenal function involves

measuring 17-ketosteroids, a breakdown product of

the adrenal hormones. Measuring the ketosteroids

alone is not considered accurate. To perform the

test properly, an injection of ACTH (adreno-cortical

stimulating hormone) is given first. Then urine is

collected and measured for 17-

hydroxycorticosteroids (17-OHCS) and 17-ketogenic

steroids (17-KGS).

Measurement of 17-OHCS and 17-KGS

without the ACTH loading is not useful and may be

misleading. The loading dose of ACTH measures how

well the adrenals respond to the pituitary. Many

people with adrenal insufficiency have no symptoms

if the adrenals are not called upon to respond to a

stressor.

Hair mineral analysis is an excellent

assessment tool for adrenal insufficiency when the

test is properly performed. It is often much more

significant, reliable and sensitive than blood or most

other tests provided the test is done correctly and

one knows how to interpret it. The hair must not be

washed at the laboratory. Washing the hair at the

laboratory erratically removes sodium and

potassium, critical minerals for adrenal

assessment. According to the research of Dr. Paul

Eck, the following are indicators of adrenal

insufficiency on a hair analysis:

* Sodium level less than 25 mg%

* Potassium level less than 10 mg%

* Sodium/potassium ratio less than

2.5:1

* Sodium/magnesium ratio less than

4.17:1

* Calcium/potassium ratio greater than

10:1

Only one indicator need be present

for the pattern to be likely. The more of these

indicators that are present, the greater the

evidence of adrenal insufficiency. Also, the more

extreme the values, the more suggestive of

adrenal insufficiency problems.

Quantifying adrenal insufficiency and

adrenal burnout. Each of the following criteria

adds a multiple to the burnout pattern. For

example, if two of the following indicators are

present, I call it double burnout. The hair must not

be washed at the laboratory for any of these criteria

to be valid.

1. Slow oxidation

2. Very slow oxidation, with a

calcium/potassium ratio greater than about 200

(ideal is about 4).

3. A calcium shell may overlap with

very slow oxidation, but may be a

separate burnout indicator.

4. A sodium/potassium ratio less than

about 2. If the sodium/potassium ratio

is very low, this adds more multiples

(see A Low Sodium/potassium Ratio

below for those criteria).

5. A sodium level less than about 11

mg%.

6. A potassium level less than about 5

mg%.

7. Three lows, also called three low

macrominerals.

8. Four lows, also called four low

macrominerals. This is a double

burnout pattern.

9. Phosphorus less than 12

mg%. Phosphorus less than 10 may be

a double burnout indicator.

11. Poor eliminator pattern, with at

least three very low metal readings, is

a burnout indicator. Six poor eliminator

indicators is a double burnout

indicator. The minerals to look for are

copper, iron, manganese, lead,

mercury, cadmium, arsenic, aluminum

and nickel.

When more than one of these

indicators are revealed, one refers to

the situation as double burnout, triple

burnout or perhaps quadruple or

quintuple burnout.

What can you do about it?

Lifestyle:

SLEEP!

Avoid draining people or situations. Learn to say NO to things!

Do not over-train: (training vs draining, working out vs working IN, READ: Paul Chek’s book

“How to Eat, Move and Be Healthy” for more on this)

Do restorative exercises: see Paul Chek’s book – listed above – Qigong, meditation, restorative

breathing, walking, very light/restorative yoga. Depending on your status, if you are going to lift

weights, keep it moderate weight and low reps- not high intensity over long periods of time.

Whenever you are not enjoying your life, assess whether you can:

1. Change the situation

2. Change yourself to fit the situation

3. Leave the situation

4. Face the situation through acceptance and logically adapting to the situation

5. Keep a gratitude list.

6. Play! With family, friends, pets.

Diet: (Read IMUNE Adrenal diet book)

A variety of organic vegetables and fruit

EFAs (omega 3 fatty acids) to manage inflammation and quiet the loop that feeds into higher

cortisol production

Add mineral sea salt to food / water

Balanced meals – judge your “success” by how you feel entering your next meal (starving,

shaky, low blood sugar?!)

Supplements & Nutrients in your food on which to focus:

1. Vitamin C – Citrus, strawberries, kiwi, cruciferous vegetables and green leafy vegetables

are good food sources. This potent antioxidant has been shown to induce an anti-

inflammatory response to prolonged exercise and stress and mitigates the rise of

cortisol and subjective response to physiological stress in human studies. Generally a

high-dose supplementation is recommended short-term and to bowel-tolerance. (Life

Extension, 17)

2. Vitamin B5 Pantothenic Acid (or only a complex as noted below) – Helps to activate the

adrenal glands and deficiency results in adrenal insufficiencies characterized by “fatigue,

headaches, sleep disturbances, nausea and abdominal discomfort.” (Life Extension, 17)

3. Vitamin B Complex– Liver, meat, seafood (wild/pasture raised, grass-fed sources), seeds,

mushrooms are good food sources. All B vitamins are critical for the entire adrenal

cascade – lower your dosage with recovery and focus only on foods. (Bauman, 2010)

(Wilson, 199)

4. B 15 methyl donor pangamic acid to promote oxygen release

5. Magnesium Glycinate or Malate – Green leafy vegetables, pumpkin seeds, sesame

seeds (also tahihi) salmon and halibut are good food sources. Magnesium is “essential to

the production of the enzymes and the energy necessary for the adrenal cascade.

6. Omega 3 – Fatty cold water fish: salmon, mackeral, herring, some tunas, etc. are good

food sources. In supplemental form, fermented cod liver oil from GreenPasture.org is

the one that I recommend.

Herbal Support:

1. Licorice root extract (DGL) – no more than 1000mg of glycyrrhizin/day – when cortisol

is lower than normal rhythm or output should be. (Life Extension, 17) This is also

easily taken via licorice root tea before 3pm.

2. Acetylcholine – To support poor circadian rhythm function (tired & wired/can’t sleep),

supporting brain and neurotransmitter function. (Walsh, T-nation)

3. L-theanine – As a calming amino acid, works by increasing GABA which is a relaxer and

creates a sense of well-being in the brain. (Life Extension, 16)

4. Seriphos (Phosphorylated Serine) at bedtime. Short-term to re-regulate sleep cycles.

5. Ashwaganda root & leaf, Panax ginseng, Siberian ginseng, Ginger root – adaptogenic

herbs that can help to modulate cortisol levels, normalize blood pressure, heart rate

and increase metabolic rate by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes for

protein and fat.

6. Ginkgo biloba – a powerful antioxidant that helps to calm free-radical production and

thereby protect the adrenals from the imbalance of inputs to the hypothalamus that

the free-radical damage would create. (Wilson, 193-207)

If you are curious about your own adrenal health status…

Contact a naturopath, chiropractor, certified nutrition consultant or other practitioner in your

area to find out if they can run an adrenal salivary index test for you.

Sources:

T-Nation.com, “The Truth About Adrenal Fatigue,” Bryan Walsh

Kharrazian, Datis. Why Do I Still Have Thyroid Symptoms? When My Lab Tests Are Normal.

Garden City, NY. Morgan Jame Publishing. 2010.

Life Extension: Disease Prevention and Treatment. Hollywood, FL. Life Extension Media. 2003.

Murray, Michael. Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements: The Essential Guide for Improving

Your Health Naturally. Roseville, CA. 1996.

Sapolsky, Robert M. Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers. The Acclaimed Guide to Stress, Stress-

Related Diseases, and Coping. New York, NY. St. Martin’s Press. 2004.

Walsh, Bryan and Sean Croxton. The Truth About Adrenal Fatigue. Blog Talk Radio.

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/undergroundwellness/2010/10/07/the-truth-about-adrenal-

fatigue-with-dr-bryan-walsh. 2010

Wilson, James L., N.D., D.C. Ph.D.. Adrenal Fatigue: The 21st Century Stress Syndrome.

Petaluma, CA. Smart Publications. 2001.

Adrenal fatigue creeps into our lives via so many different avenues. Stress, over-work, trauma,

lack of sleep, major life changes, surgeries, infections, autoimmune disease, over-training,

blood sugar fluctuations (these stress the adrenals), vegetarian/vegan diets (high in copper/low

in zinc, as well as high in carbs that can cause blood sugar swings), Leaky Gut Syndrome,

pregnancy... the list of contributing factors just goes on and on.

We always hear about stress-induced high cortisol, which does all kinds of not-fun things like

increasing belly fat and killing brain cells! But what happens when you've cranked out the stress

hormones for so long that you've exhausted your adrenals? You start experiencing hormone

cascade disruption in the form of "pregenolone steal":

What happens is that, instead of converting pregenolone into DHEA and then into sex

hormones, it gets shifted toward cortisol production (cortisol is more vital to our existence than

sex hormones are and so it gets prioritized. Cortisol is a major steroid hormone and too little of

it really drives up inflammation).

There are 4 stages of adrenal fatigue:

Stage 1: Alarm Response/Fight-or-Flight (Increase in cortisol is still

within the body's output capacity).

Stage 2: Resistance Response/chronic stress (The adrenals are not

able to keep up with cortisol demand. Fatigue is present. Ability to

handle stress is decreased. Sleep disruption occurs. Thyroid hormone

conversion is affected.)

Stage 3: Adrenal Exhaustion (Low cortisol. Hormone production

suffers and clinical symptoms appear. Muscle breakdown. Chronic

fatigue. Increased pain).

Stage 4: Adrenal crash/failure

So, what are the symptoms of adrenal fatigue? Could I have it?

Morning fatigue/morning headache.

Not really feeling awake until around 10 a.m.

Afternoon “low” (feelings of sleepiness or clouded thinking) from 2 to 4 p.m.

A burst of energy at 6 p.m. when you finally feel better from your afternoon lull

Sleepiness around 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. However, you resist going to sleep

A “second wind” at 11 p.m. that lasts until about 1 a.m.

Never feeling rested, no matter how much sleep you get

Cravings for foods high in salt and fats

Increased thirst/frequent urination (water goes right through you)

Chronic low blood pressure

Sensitivity to cold and feeling chilled

Increased PMS or menopausal symptoms

Mild depression

Mood swings

Mental fog

Memory problems

A decreased ability to handle stress

A decreased ability to recover from illness/injury

Heat intolerance

Light-headedness when getting up from a sitting or lying down position

Decreased sex drive

Frequent sighing

Inability to handle foods high in potassium or carbohydrates unless they’re combined with fats and protein

Sugar cravings

Leaky Gut Syndrome

Increased food/seasonal allergies

Increased sensitivity to sunlight

Low progesterone/DHEA and possibly estrogen

Hot flashes

General inflammation

Achiness or joint pain

Poor exercise recovery

Difficulty losing weight/belly fat

Difficulty in changing body composition/hard gainer

Muscular weakness

Purple or blue under-eye circles

Vertical lines in the fingertips

Ringing in the ears

Heart palpitations or tachycardia

Thyroid hormone (T3) conversion impairment

NOTE: Many conventional doctors do not recognize adrenal fatigue as a medical condition, nor

utilize saliva hormone panels. They are trained to only recognize full-blown Addison's Disease. If

your doctor falls into this category, you're going to have to find another practitioner to help

you.

Once you know that you have adrenal fatigue, you have to be willing to commit to lifestyle

changes in order to heal. If you have mild adrenal fatigue, you can recover quickly with the right

tools and changes. If it's more severe, realistically it will take a minimum of several months and

it's highly recommended to seek the care of a good practitioner (someone who practices

Functional Medicine/Functional Endocrinology or even a skilled acupuncturist/OMD). There

may be underlying factors that need addressing that are beyond your ability to identify or

address.

Be aware that for more advanced adrenal fatigue, the healing process is not a linear one. You

might start to feel good and then feel not so great again for a little while. Be patient!

Some helpful things for healing adrenal fatigue:

-SLEEP! As much as possible, get 9+ hours. Yes, this is a lot, but you need that much to heal.

Don't make the mistake I did by skimping on sleep!

-Get to bed early! Getting to bed before 10 is preferable. You want to go to sleep in that

window of sleepiness before your second wind hits. That second wind is a surge of cortisol (not

good!) and will work against your progress.

-Eat a diet (preferably Paleo/Primal!) that's easy on your blood sugar. Eat lots of protein and fat

and to avoid blood sugar fluctuations and eat carbs like sweet potatoes or berries that are

easier on your blood sugar. The cold, hard truth (that I learned the cold, hard way) is that it's a

lot harder to heal adrenal fatigue on vegetarian/vegan diets (as per Dr. James Wilson, one of

the most experienced in his field).

-Don't exercise too hard. You'll only set back your progress. Learn to gauge what you can

actually handle. If you can't recover quickly or feel worse the next day, it's too much. I

recommend sticking to short walks, gentle yoga and esp. tai chi or qigong (qigong really helped

my healing!) Now is not the time to be trying to get buff (you won't be able get buff anyway

until your cortisol/sex hormone levels are healthy!)

-Add 1/4-1/2 tsp. unrefined salt (any salt with color like Redmond Real Salt or Pink Himalayan)

to your water. This sounds odd, but when you're in a state of pregnenolone steal, you're not

making much aldosterone (see the chart), the hormone that regulates sodium/potassium levels

and the balance of these minerals is upset, causing sodium loss, which is made worse by

drinking large amounts of water, which further dilutes blood sodium levels (hence the low

blood pressure/dizziness upon standing/muscle weakness/heat intolerance.) The salt will

quickly correct those symptoms.

-Be kind and patient with yourself. Give yourself permission to not get stuff done if it's not

immediately pressing. Let go of perfectionism. Get help from others when possible.

-To help with mental stress, try L-Theanine. Theanine is an amino acid found in green tea and it

helps the brain make alpha waves, which will put you into a calmer, more focused state. 100-

400 mgs at a time is the dose. It can be a sanity saver!

-Deep breathing. Such a fundamental thing, but most of us don't even know HOW to breathe

properly! Get yourself into the habit of doing a few minutes of deep breathing upon waking,

before meals and before bed. I promise you will feel a difference!

Here's my illustration of proper breathing (qigong style!):

-Meditation. Meditation doesn't have to be complicated and you don't have to do it for an hour

to reap the benefits. I like to do a meditation called the "5-8 Meditation", which is a simple

breath awareness technique. All you have to do is sit in a comfortable position and breath into

your relaxed belly through your nose for 5 counts, pause, and exhale slowly through your nose

for 8 counts. Just be aware of how your breath feels and allow any thoughts to pass through

you.

If you'd like to add a visualization, you can imagine cool, white light or water flowing down

through the center of the top of your head and washing through you, taking any tension and

stress with it. You can start with 5 minutes. Doing this in the morning before you start your day

can have a profound effect on your whole day. It's also a great way to end the day.

For those who suspect mild adrenal fatigue or just need a little extra help with handling stress:

Besides taking advantage of the suggestions above, you can use supplements for a little extra

help:

-Himalaya Stress Care is one of my favorite adaptogenic, adrenal supplements. It's been

extensively researched over the decades (see Geriforte research papers) and is proven to

reduce cortisol and boost adrenal function (it's also a great antioxidant!) You can take the

recommended dose for maintenance or take a higher dose during periods of stress and/or

fatigue.

Adrenal Crash and Recovery Cycle - Part 1

By: Michael Lam, MD, MPH www.DrLam.com

Introduction

The adrenal glands are the main stress modulation centers of the body. When stressors (either

physical or emotional) overwhelm the adrenals ability to compensate, Adrenal Fatigue may ensue.

This is usually a slow and insidious process that progresses through many years, though some can

experience it after an intense episode of acute stress, such as death of a loved one, financial

distress, or acute infection.

The job of returning the body to its normal function rests with the adrenals. This process is indeed

complicated and convoluted, accompanied by many unpleasant symptoms. They are mediated

primarily by hormones. The main ones are cortisol, adrenaline, estrogen, and androgen. The

adrenals bear the brunt of this responsibility, as it secrets over 50 different hormones in an exact and

very precise manner to maintain normal internal homeostasis. Adrenal hormones in turn affect other

hormones in the body, ranging from thyroid hormones to serotonin to insulin. The state of

dysregulation of these hormones results in unpleasant and abnormal physiological

responses during an acute adrenal decompensation episode. It is the body's way of returning to

a lower state of physiological function where conservation of energy becomes a primary focus for

survival.

Adrenal crash is therefore the body's strategy of returning to a state of simple living

dominated by bed-rest.

If the adrenal's compensatory emergency response effort is successful, the adrenal crash will

eventually stop and the body will begin to stabilize and gradually return to its pre-crash state

of function through what is known as the Recovery Phase. The Crash and subsequent

Recovery Phase taken as a whole constitute the Adrenal Crash and Recovery

Cycle. Unpleasant symptoms slowly disappear during the recovery cycle. If not successful, the

body will continue to decompensate until such time as external help is rendered to support

the adrenals and arrest the crash. In the absence of that, the body will naturally and slowly

deteriorate, ultimately resulting in adrenal failure.

Total adrenal failure is a medical emergency, but there are several measurable degrees of Adrenal

Fatigue before adrenal failure. These Adrenal Fatigue states (Adrenal Fatigue stages 1-4) usually

progresses with time and is triggered and exacerbated and marked by periodic adrenal crash and

recovery cycles.

This paper will examine the adrenal crash and the recovery cycle in great details as they are found

in each of the Adrenal Fatigue stages. Due to the lack of quantitative and laboratory

investigative tools, findings presented here is primarily based on the clinician's perspective.

The Physiological Basis of Adrenal Crash

As mentioned above, Adrenal Fatigue is the body's strategy for returning to a simpler

physiologic form of function as a way to conserve energy. The more advanced the fatigue,

the lower the physiological basis. The most basic physiological state is prolong bed rest. We

call it hibernation in the animal kingdom. When an animal hibernates, it expends a minimal

amount of energy. It comes as no surprise that those with adrenal crashes or in advance

stages are often bed-ridden.

No organ is spared as the body down-regulates during a crash or as Adrenal Fatigue worsens

and the body returns to a simple state. Multiple organ systems are involved. The first systems to

turn off are those not required for basic survival. Reproduction is considered a luxury and not a vital

function when survival is at stake. Libido as a result is lowered. The thyroid also goes into a slow

down mode as the body attempts to reduce the basal metabolic rate (idle speed) to conserve

energy. This naturally leads to sluggishness, constipation, and worsening fatigue. The

gastrointestinal tract as a whole tends to slow down in its assimilation of food. Complex and

processed foods become hard to digest and less is absorbed. Digestive enzymes and acid release

are reduced. Gastric motility slows. As a result, foods do not churn as much compared to that of a

normal healthy person. Poor digestion is common, accompanied by reduced absorption, increased

gas, bloating, and constipation.

As this happens, the liver and kidney functions are also affected. Both are the clearing houses of the

body's toxins. As liver function slows (though laboratory tests are usually normal), complete

breakdown of metabolites becomes compromised. Overall, body clearance of such by-products

tends to slow concurrently as toxic metabolite build up occurs as a result. Fat-based metabolites

tend to find their way into areas of the body high in fat as they attract each other. Lipophilic organs

(organs that like fat) such as the brain have a tendency to attract such fat based metabolites easily.

Instead of a normal complete clearance out of the body on a timely basis, such metabolites tend to

accumulate instead. Metabolites that accumulate in the brain can lead to and contribute to

memory loss, confusion, anxiety, and brain fog. Normal brain function may be impaired if severe.

Some accumulate in joints and muscles, leading to muscle pain of unknown origin and joint

inflammation. The number of symptoms becomes overwhelming.

The down-regulation or return to simplicity will continue as long as the body sees it as a

positive step to conserve energy for survival. As the body further slows down, muscle breaks

down to generate energy, leading to an overall net loss of protein and muscle mass. When this

happens, the body enters a catabolic state, with overall weight loss and muscle

wasting. Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue may ensue. Appetite reduces as the gastrointestinal

tract motility slows. Those with sugar imbalances and insulin resistances are particularly vulnerable

to a worsening state. Electrolyte imbalance becomes common. If the condition does not reverse,

the body goes into an alarm reaction, activating the fight or flight response and release of

adrenaline. Too much adrenaline can further propagate this viscous downward cycle. The normal

negative feedback loop of hormones derails and soon a less stable positive feedback loop replaces

it. Because positive feedback loops are inherently unsteady, the body moves closer to crashes with

the smallest trigger. Ultimately, if not resolved, the body will collapse-a return to ultimate

simplicity.

The myriad of physical symptoms mentioned above is convoluted and appear confusing.

However, the progression is quite logical and clear if you see them as the body's way of

slowing down. Indeed, like a domino effect, the shutting down process happens in steps. At

the end, the body is reduced to bed rest. Ambulatory help for daily chores are required.

Fatigue is extreme with the gastric system paralyzed, heart rate irregular, mental function

clearly compromised, while the feeling of wired and tired abounds, as adrenaline is high

when energy is low.

This continuum of down-regulation will not stop until the body finds its equilibrium. This is the

point where energy demands slow to a point that matches the input. This is the point when the body

finally feels it can survive and not threatened. Sad to say many are often bedridden at this state.

Understanding the above down-regulation and return to simplicity during an adrenal crash is very

important not only to explain the various symptoms that concurrently arise defying conventional

medical logic. It also serves as the basis of our understanding of why certain common remedies and

approaches do not work but in fact make things worse when the body is in such a state. Lastly, it

serves to guide us on recovery planning.

Anatomy of a Crash and Recovery Cycle

The complete crash and recovery cycle is broken down into two phases: the Crash Phase,

where the body decompensates with worsening symptoms, and the Recovery Phase, where

bodily function is gradually restored to the pre-crash level of function.

The most prominent symptom during the adrenal crash phase is fatigue and lack of

energy. The sum of all dysfunctional and dysregulated hormonal and metabolic pathways ultimately

results in reduced energy output as the main outcome. Gauging the energy level during the crash

phase therefore gives us the most accurate indication of the severity of the crash over

time. There are no laboratory tests that can quantify this objectively. The more intense and

more symptoms coming from the adrenal crash, the deeper and more severe the crash.

The Recovery Phase is marked by a gradual return to pre-crash level of adrenal function and

energy level. Symptoms of adrenal crash will reduce and spontaneously resolve as recovery

proceeds. The Recovery Phase is further broken down into a stabilization period followed by one or

more mini-recovery cycle, each consisting of a preparation period, a honeymoon period, and a

plateau period. The three period flow in sequence resembles a set of steps going up. The overall

successful recovery plan consists of multiple "S" curves in an upward sustained series without

allowing any major downward crashes. This is illustrated in the graph above and it is comprised of

the following:

Stabilization Period. Immediately after an adrenal crash and prior to the initial min-recovery

leg up there usually is a stabilization period where the body ceases to decompensate and

gradually arrive at a steady state of lower function. As we shall see later, this stabilization period

carries an important and significant role in the overall Recovery Phase. The sensation is "the worse

is over, but it can come back anytime".

Preparation period. This period normally lasts from 1 day to 6 weeks, depends on the stage of

Adrenal Fatigue. The stronger the adrenal function, the shorter the duration. During this time,

the body normally may not feel any significant energy difference even though nutrients have been

administered, though there is a sense of improved control and reduce sense of impending doom.

One continues to feel fatigue, but there is a subtle sense of improvement if one pays careful

attention. This is the phase where the body builds its lost reserve and internally gets

stronger. It is not uncommon to feel even worse from time to time.

Honeymoon Period. This usually follows immediately after the preparation period and can

last a few days to 12 weeks if the preparation period is carried out properly. Again, the duration is

highly dependent on the stage of Adrenal Fatigue. Generally speaking, the earlier the Adrenal

Fatigue stage, the longer this period can last. The weaker the adrenals, the more tendency for

this period to be short-lived unless under professional guidance. During this time the body is

able to handle stress better. Fatigue reduces, palpitation frequently dissipates, and anxiety attack

diminishes. Blood pressure starts to stabilize, brain fog starts to dissipate, and functional sleep

returns. There might be mini-crashes and setbacks from time to time that last a few days. They are

more tolerable compared to before, but recovery is faster. There is an overall sense of well being

as if a burden has been lifted from one's shoulder. An overall sense of optimism returns.

Plateau Period. The body is stabilized. There is no set time frame for the duration of this period.

Generally, it lasts a few weeks to a few months. In early stages of Adrenal Fatigue, this phase can

go on for years and totally asymptomatic. In later stages of Adrenal Fatigue, the picture is much

more dismal. Sufferers have to slowly adapt to an overall lower level of energy function. If the

adrenal function is already at its maximum, one can be stuck at this phase for a very long time

without upward progress. Many on self-guided programs would not be able rise to the next cycle due

to the lack of foresight and planning. This is perhaps the most trying time, as impatience sets in.

Most interpret the lack of continuation and sustained improvement as failure and become

disappointed. Yet within this period often is embedded a resetting time where the body can be

pushed to a higher level of function if take advantage of properly.

Most Adrenal Fatigue sufferers, especially those with advance weakness, go through multiple

crash and recovery cycles over time. A careful analysis and comparative study of triggers and

accompanying symptoms of each cycle over time serves as a good guide on overall adrenal

function.

Have You had Your Crash Today?

Adrenal Fatigue sufferers are no strangers to "crashes". The crashes are usually the first alarm

bell to ring early on in Adrenal Fatigue. At first they appear harmless, and can be as simple as

a short period of exhaustion that recovers spontaneously after taking a nap or a sugar fix; or

by way of a caffeine crash after the stimulatory effect of caffeine has worn off. With time,

crashes become more intense and more prevalent. In severe cases, crashes can be triggered

by something as simple as taking a longer than usual walk, and can last for months. They can

vary greatly in intensity, depending on the stage of Adrenal Fatigue.

With each crash, the body usually recovers on its own. Internally, the body gets weaker with

each crash. If not properly nurtured back to full function, these small crashes become more

frequent, and more intense. Over time, as the body gets weaker, the recovery time also

lengthens. The body enters stage 1 of Adrenal Fatigue and slowly gets worse, advancing to

stage 2 and 3, and ultimately adrenal failure if no steps are taken to repair the damage.

Minor crashes can occur infrequently in the early stages of Adrenal Fatigue (stage 1 and 2),

and every few days in late stage Adrenal Fatigue (stage 3 and 4). Major crashes usually only

occur once every few years in early Adrenal Fatigue, but can occur as frequently as every few

weeks in late stage Adrenal Fatigue such as adrenal exhaustion (stage 3). In such cases, the

body never really gets a chance to fully recover. It goes through one crash cycle after another. If

corrective steps are not taken to nurture the adrenals back to health, the body becomes preoccupied

with fighting the crashes and trying to recover and function normally while being on the alert for the

next crash. This constant state of alertness and repeated activation of the emergency system of the

body to overcome crashes eventually drains the body of much needed energy, leading to a state of

chronic fatigue and physical exhaustion.

In severe cases (adrenal exhaustion stage 3C or 3D or beyond), the sufferer may be

bedridden in a state of what is described as "living hell" or "walking dead". On the outside

they look normal. On the inside, they can hardly function. Conventional medicine's understanding

of this state is unfortunately quite poor.

Common Causes of Adrenal Crashes

All adrenal crashes are precipitated by some form of stressor event, if one looks deep

enough.Such events may be obvious (such as death of a loved one) or minor (such as taking a long

walk). Small crashes might also delude detection. It is of paramount importance that the cause of

each crash be fully investigated. The same stressor will likely trigger subsequent crashes. This is

where an expert clinician's guidance is critical. History will likely repeat itself if no steps are

taken understand what triggers the current crash and steps taken to prevent it from occurring

again.

Examples of situational stressors that can trigger adrenal crashes include: overwork; dehydration;

long road trips; vacation; dental procedures; infection, overexposure to sun, lack of sleep, sexual

intercourse with ejaculation, drinking soda or coffee, medication withdrawals, especially steroids;

thyroid medication sensitivity, especially T3; infection such as the flu or insect bites; overmedication

such as the use of steroid and anesthesia with epinephrine, investigative procedures such as ACTH

stimulation test. Other stressors trigger include: over use of stimulatory supplements, metal toxicity,

excessive exercise, exposure to heat such as sauna or steam room, exposure to toxic fume, prolong

standing, overly anxious, relationship difficulty, death of a loved one, long airplane or car trip, sexual

intercourse especially with ejaculation, moving, overly aggressive detoxification such as enema,

homeopathy, certain massages or acupuncture, excessive improper breathing and use of stimulatory

breathing exercises, and excessive stimulatory entertainment such as watching an action movie or

riding a roller coaster.

It is important to note that the more advanced the Adrenal Fatigue, the less intensity the

stressor needs to be to trigger an adrenal crash. The body's reserve in advanced Adrenal

Fatigue is already low and very close to hovering above the adrenal symptom threshold level. It does

not take much to cross this threshold as the crash occurs.

Symptoms of an Adrenal Crash

Not all adrenal crashes and recovery cycles are symptomatic. Those with stage 1 and early stage

2 Adrenal Fatigues may not even be aware, especially if there are sufficient adrenal reserves

at hand to compensate and ensure normal daily function. On the other hand, symptoms are

universally present for those in stage 3 and 4 Adrenal Fatigue when they crash, and their

symptoms vary greatly in severity.

Symptoms of adrenal crash represent a sudden intensification or abrupt onset of the many already

existing pre-crash Adrenal Fatigue symptoms, such as:

Drastic reduction in energy and increased fatigue.

Muscles don't regenerate and are lost to provide sugar to the brain, with drastic increase in

brain fog and dizziness.

Low blood sugar and frequent hypoglycemic episodes with lightheadedness as sugar

regulation becomes dysfunctional.

Major change in mood stability leading to depression, anxiety, irritability, and rage.

Lower immune function leading to more infections, shingles and slower recovery.

Loss of the steroid hormone precursors DHEA, leading to low testosterone or imbalanced

estrogen and progesterone levels. These hormonal changes are often seen in women as

significant estrogen dominance symptoms appear; such as water retention, hot flashes,

insomnia, bloating, sugar cravings, and emotional changes. In men, libido is lost.

Poor digestion from the constant decrease of metabolism, with irregular bowel movements,

constipation, irritable bowel.

Uncontrolled stress response triggered by adrenaline rush with exaggerated symptoms such

as anxiety, depression or physical shaking for a period of time after a stressful situation or

sugar crashes. People will also start to perceive situations to be more stressful than they are,

due to the exaggerated responses.

Fibromyalgia with joint pain as the body enters a catabolic state.

Hypothyroidism due to the inhibition of thyroid hormone activation and also suppression of

the controlled release of hormone from the thyroid. Dry skin and weight gain is common.

Chronic fatigue from the constant stress stimulation and insomnia. The sensation of being

"wired and tired" is common, with inability to fall asleep.

Metabolic imbalance and sugar dysregulation, with bouts of awakening in the middle of the

night with cold sweats, palpitations, and hunger pangs.

Arthritis flare-ups from the poorly regulated inflammatory pathways.

Acne and hair loss from imbalance in hormones and poor immune response.

Immune imbalances and decreased immune function, frequent infection, and poor healing.

You need not have all of these symptoms to have an adrenal crash. Sometimes, you only have

a few of them, but they are usually severe. Sometimes the degree of decompensation can be quite

mild and minor. Other times, they can be severe and major. Generally speaking, the more intense

the symptoms, the more severe is the crash. Crash intensity can be classified into five levels which

will be explained later.One can experience any degree of adrenal crash at any stage of Adrenal

Fatigue.

Adrenal Crash Intensity

Clinically, Adrenal Fatigue Crashes are classified into 5 levels based on subjective evaluation.

Levels 1 and 2 are considered minor crashes with good recovery potential, while levels 3, 4, and 5

are considered major crashes and have a much less certain Recovery Phase.

Level 1 - loss of 10-19% of immediate pre-crash baseline level of adrenal function in terms of

energy, metabolic imbalance such as hypoglycemia, and emotional function such as irritability.

Typically, there is a sense of being more tired than usual, more irritable, and a sense of being

hungry earlier than normal. Normal outside work as well as household chores can be completed,

though a sense of tiredness is felt at the end of the day. A nap can be extremely helpful and the

sense of recovery is felt after rest.

Level 2 - loss of 20-29% of immediate pre-crash baseline level of function in terms of

energy,metabolic imbalance such as hypoglycemia, and emotional function such as irritability.

Typically, there is a definite reduction in energy, but that can be compensated practically by a nap or

laying down for 30 minutes. Emotional stability is less, and easily irritated. When it is time to eat,

there is a sense of relief. The ability to perform normal outside activities such as a job or regular

household chores is compromised, but can be forced to be completed if needed to. Even with a nap

and rest during the day, the body is tired and not quite the same. The body is under strain.

Level 3 - loss of 30-39% of immediate pre-crash baseline level of function in terms of

energy,metabolic imbalance such as hypoglycemia, and emotional function such as irritability.

Typically, the energy level is low throughout the day. Even with rest and a nap, the body remains

very tired. There is moderate reduction in the ability to perform all outside activities as well as

household chores. One feels like staying home all day and not just for a few hours to rest. Anger,

short tempered, and rage is common. The body craves sugar for energy at times. Insomnia is worse,

and in many cases, accompanied with cold sweats, heart palpitations and dizziness.

Level 4 - loss of 40-49% of immediate pre-crash baseline level of function in terms of

energy,metabolic imbalance such as hypoglycemia, and emotional function such as irritability.

Typically, there is severe fatigue throughout the day. Unable to do most household chores, and the

body feels totally drained. Emotionally depressed and too weak emotionally to get angry. Food or

supplements that generates energy before may make things worse. Unable to get to do outside

chores is a key characteristic. Those who are working will be unable to go to work. Even sounds

from the TV can be irritating. Once in bed, it's hard to get up other than to go to the kitchen to

prepare food.

Level 5 - loss of greater than 50% of immediate pre-crash baseline level of function in terms

of energy, metabolic imbalance such as hypoglycemia, and emotional function such as irritability.

Bedridden most of the time, getting up only to accomplish the basic personal hygiene chores. It's not

unusual to require assistance for ambulation or taking a shower or changing clothes.

One can have any number of minor or major crashes during any stage of Adrenal Fatigue.

Adrenal Crash and Recovery Progression through Stages 1 to 3 of Adrenal Fatigue

The following diagram shows the typical general progression of Adrenal Fatigue over time, with

steady deterioration during Stage 1 and 2 that is generally asymptomatic. This is followed by a rapid

and functional decline in Stage 3 which is especially severe in Stage 3C. If unattended, the natural

progression ends in adrenal failure. The exact progression varies from person to person with wide

variations.

There are many crashes and recovery during along the way. Let us start to examine more closely

the natural of these crashes in each stage.

Stage 1 Adrenal Fatigue (Alarm Reaction)

In this stage, the body is alarmed by the stressors and mounts an aggressive anti-stress response to

reduce stress levels. Some doctors called this the Early Fatigue stage. Unfortunately, this sub-

clinical state is seldom recognized as a pathological condition. Blood sugar levels become

imbalanced, resulting in low energy. This dysfunction is temporarily patched by the intake of quick

fixes such as high sugar content soda drinks, energy potions, and high carbohydrate foods such as

donuts. Many people even consider this state "normal" as part of living in the modern society under

stress. Those who require coffee to start the day may already be in this stage and not be aware of it.

Crashes in this stage is usually minor (Level 1 or 2), though a major crash (Level 3 or higher)

may occur once every few months and a major crash every few years. No physical symptoms

before, during, or after the crash other than mild discomfort are reported because symptoms

at its worse are still above the Adrenal Symptoms Threshold (AST). If a major crash occurs,

recovery usually takes a few days or weeks at most and full recovery is achieved. Crashes in

this stage usually go unnoticed and is only evident on retrospect.

Stage 2 Adrenal Fatigue (Resistance Response)

With chronic or severe stress, the adrenals eventually become unable to compensate. Normal daily

functions are still able to be carried out, but the sense of fatigue is pronounced at the end of each

day as the body needs more rest than usual to recover. Despite a full nights rest, the body often

does not feel refreshed in the morning. Anxiety starts to set in, and the person becomes easily

irritable. Insomnia becomes more common, as it takes longer to fall asleep. There are also frequent

awakenings as well. Infections become more recurrent. PMS and menstrual irregularities surface,

and symptoms suggestive of hypothyroidism (such as a sensation of feeling cold and a sluggish

metabolism) become prevalent. The thyroid glands are usually affected at this stage. Sluggishness,

feeling cold, and central weight gain, despite exercise and diet, are the predominant symptoms that

usually bring patients to their physicians for the first time. Many are prescribed anti-depressants and

told there is nothing wrong physically. Those who require multiple cups of coffee to sustain

themselves may well be entrenched at this stage without knowing it.

Compared to stage 1, the frequency of minor and major adrenal crashes is higher. The

intensity is also increased. AST has been penetrated on the downside. A mild degree of

adrenal symptoms are usually present before the crash, but not always. During the adrenal

crash, these symptoms are made worse and exaggerated, but still manageable. Many recover

fully with no symptoms after the crash as they rise above the AST, but not all are so

fortunate. A significant number remains symptomatic below the AST after recovery with

symptoms that are slightly worse than the state they were in pre-crash. These crashes are

often what brings the sufferers to their physicians for the first time.

In the figure below, we see a graph covering stage 1 and 2 Adrenal Fatigue and the progression of

each crash and recovery cycle. The adrenal function is plotted against time. Note at some point in

adrenal function, a level comes into play where the sufferer goes from asymptomatic (no symptoms)

to symptomatic. This is the called the Adrenal Symptoms Threshold (AST). Crashes that occur

above this threshold are generally asymptomatic. They are generally unnoticeable unless the

sufferer is attuned to his own body condition. In stage 1 Adrenal Fatigue, a crash is generally

followed by an immediate recovery, both of which occur above the Adrenal Symptoms

Threshold (AST). At most, there may be a brief period of exhaustion. A total recovery is

expected with a short nap or drinking coffee.

With each crash, the remaining adrenal function is reduced slightly after recovery. The more crashes

occur over time, the weaker the adrenal function becomes. Fortunately for those in this stage, there

is adequate adrenal reserve as the AST has yet to be penetrated on the downside. As a result,

Adrenal Fatigue as a trigger or cause is frequently overlooked. This can go on for years and

decades.

Crashes associated with stage 2 Adrenal Fatigue are characterized by a higher intensity of

symptoms compared to crashes associated with stage 1. The pre-crash energy level is lower

than stage 1 Adrenal Fatigue at the baseline to start. At the height of the crash, the adrenal function

usually descends and penetrates the AST. Physical debilitating symptoms start to appear, including

high blood pressure, insomnia and low blood sugar. As with crashes associated with stage 1 Adrenal

Fatigue, each crash and recovery cycle end at an adrenal function status that is slightly

compromised compared to before. This is a gentle downward cascade of functions resembling a

waterfall or a series of steps going down. The duration of the Recovery Phase is at least 2 times

or more longer when compared to that experienced in stage 1 Adrenal Fatigue.

Stage 3A Adrenal Fatigue (Chronic Single System Dysfunction)

As the body enters Adrenal Exhaustion (stage 3), the clinical picture changes drastically for the

worse. In this phase, mild symptoms characteristic of first and second stage Adrenal Fatigue

continue to worsen and become persistent or chronic. Just to mention a few symptoms: the slightly

elevated blood pressure now becomes low throughout the day, mild musculoskeletal pain turns into

chronic fibromyalgia around the clock, frequent recurrent infections are the norm in comparison to

intermittent infections, occasional mental feeling of "blues" becomes mild depression, sleep patterns

become more disrupted as insomnia becomes chronic, and fatigue that usually occurs during the

end of occasional stressful days becomes an everyday event. There is a moderate reduction in

carrying out normal daily activities. Most people are exhausted after a full day's work. Not all organs

are dysfunctional to the same degree at the same time. The organ system that is constitutionally

weakest is the first one to decompensate, while another organ system appears to be intact.

Minor crashes are becoming increasingly common, occurring once every few weeks. Major

crashes usually occur once every 6 to 12 months. Symptoms are prevalent pre-crash, and

because most are long-standing, the sufferer has adapted to them with their daily life

function at a lower energy baseline level. During the adrenal crash, the symptoms worsen.

Even after recovery, the body remains in symptomatic state below the AST most of the time.

Stage 3B Adrenal Fatigue (Multiple Endocrine Axis Dysfunction)

The endocrine system in our body is linked hormonally in a series of axis for optimal function.

Dysfunction in one system invariably affects the others, leading to a cascade of decompensation as

the body weakens. In this phase, the ovarian-adrenal-thyroid axis in women and adrenal-thyroid axis

in men are particularly compromised. When these axis become imbalanced, the adverse feedback

loop creates a vicious cycle of cascading decompensations, involving multiple organ systems at the

same time. Typical presentations in the female involve symptoms of under-active thyroid,

imbalanced ovarian hormones, and low adrenal function. In the male, the adrenal-thyroid axis may

be compromised. Sufferer's physical and emotional states continue to deteriorate and they enter into

a state of confusion in this phase. They are unable to logically dissect the myriad of systematic

manifestations of multiple hormonal axis imbalances.

Compared to those experiences in stage 3A Adrenal Fatigue, crashes are usually more

intense and more frequent as the adrenal reserve is depleted. It is not uncommon to have

minor crashes every 1-2 weeks, and major adrenal crashes every few months. The body

never fully recovers to a point that the energy is consistently above the AST at any point in

the crash and recovery cycle.

Stage 3C Adrenal Fatigue (Dis-Equilibrium State)

As the body continues its downward path of impaired functions, it gathers steam. Gradually, the

body becomes severely compromised in trying to maintain the fine controls of homeostasis. Normal

equilibrium is therefore lost. The body will try its hardest to maintain equilibrium; but its crude

compensatory response, damaged receptor sites, along with impaired metabolic and detoxification

pathways of a low clearance state, give rise to paradoxical and exaggerated responses. This is

usually mediated through the autonomic nervous system. Clinical manifestations include swings in

blood sugar level, with reactive hypoglycemia being the hallmark, along with fragile blood pressure

state, postural hypotension, inability to remain standing for a prolonged period of time, reactive

sympathoadrenal responses including heart palpitations, night sweats, and a state of reactively

driven anxiety followed by depression. Normal ambulatory and functioning time is usually very much

restricted.

Crashes that occur in this phase are fast and furious. Minor adrenal crashes can occur every

few days, and major ones as often as every few weeks. There is a roller coaster ride of ever

worsening symptoms. It is not unusual for one to go from minor crash immediately into a

major crash before the minor crash has even completed its recovery. There is a state of

constant fatigue, with severe energy depletion. The highest rate functional decline occurs at

this phase. A major crash can be very scary, and may require trips to the Emergency Room.

Stage 3D Adrenal Fatigue (Near Failure)

As the body's cortisol hormone level falls below the minimum required reserve for normal function

and output fails, the body continues to down-regulate the amount needed in order to preserve what

is on hand for only the most essential body functions. Pump-failure occurs. This down-regulation

further reduces cortisol output, exaggerating a vicious downward cycle. Toleration to steroids may

be blunted or negated. Normal nutrients are often systemically rejected by the body, even at low

doses.

Those who are in this stage often live in the hopeless state of constant crashes. The body is

too drained to mount a productive response. Adrenal crash symptoms are usually extreme.

Minor crashes can be intermingled with major crashes. Emergency room visits are common due

to unstable blood pressure, irregular heart rate, and severe anxiety with a sense of impending doom.

Sufferer is usually bedridden requiring assistance for daily chores and personal hygiene functions.

The following figure shows how the same process works in those with Adrenal Fatigue stage

3A to 3D Adrenal Exhaustion. In this stage, the intensity of body crash continues to increase,

despite a crash time that may or may not be much longer than that of earlier stages. However,

clinical observation shows that the Recovery Phase is exponentially longer. Recovery Phase

for stage 3C crashes can be 20 times or more, longer than that of stage 1.

In addition to longer recovery time, sufferers remain symptomatic below the AST throughout

almost the entire crash and the recovery experience. Those in Adrenal Exhaustion have a very

low adrenal pre-crash reserve at baseline. Their pre-crash adrenal function is hovering slightly above

the adrenal symptoms threshold during the best of times. It does not take much external stressors to

push the adrenal function lower and cross the threshold into the symptomatic area. Compared to

earlier stages, stress triggers can simply be something that would not have triggered a crash in early

stages. This may be a longer than usual walk or inadequate fluid intake. The body is much more

sensitive to stressors as adrenal weakness progresses.

The following summarizes crash symptoms clinically:

Adrenal

Fatigue

Stage

Interval

Between Level 1 and 2 Crashe

s

Interval

Between Level

3,4,5 Crashe

s

% Symptoma

tic Pre-crash

% Symptomatic During

Crash

% Symptomatic During Recovery

% Symptoma

tic Post Recovery

Degree of

Adrenal Crash

Symptoms

1 months years 0 0 0 0 none

2 months years 25% 50% 50% 25% mild

3A weeks months 50% 100% 100% 50% moderate

3B weeks months 75 100 100 75 moderate

3C days weeks 100 100 100 85 severe

3D days weeks 100 100 100 100 severe

Crash Management

The key to managing an adrenal crash is to reduce the crash velocity, lessen the intensity, and

administer proper nutrients at the right time to propel the system into recovery as soon as possible.

Minor adrenal crashes (loss of 10 percent to 29 percent of energy) usually go unnoticed in Stage 1

and 2 of Adrenal Fatigue. All crashes are noticeable in Stage 3 and 4 of Adrenal Fatigue. Major

crashes involving a loss of 30 percent or more of energy can be devastating at any stage.

The more advanced the Adrenal Fatigue, the less reserve is present in the body, and therefore, the

faster the crash. The same stressor that takes a few days to trigger a crash in those with Stage 1

and 2 Adrenal Fatigue may only take a few hours to cause the same damage in those with Stage 3

and 4 Adrenal Fatigue. Crash intensity is also greatly magnified in terms of symptomatology-the

weaker the adrenals, the cruder the way the emergency systems are activated.

Proper crash management requires individualized attention. Everyone is different, and there are no

standardized protocols. What may be fitting for one person may actually make another person

worse. The following are key areas to be addressed during crash management:

Physical Activity. Usually this means immediate reduction of unnecessary physical

activity and an increase in rest. Exercise in particular, needs to be adjusted to match the

energy state of the body. In early Adrenal Fatigue, a crash usually presents itself in nothing

more than mild fatigue. Exercise increases adrenaline release and blood circulation, which

might result in a short-term energy boost. Unless this is followed by adequate rest, over-

exercise can drain the body and trigger follow-up crashes. Complete rest in bed, on the

other hand, is not necessarily the best either. A personalized program of Adrenal

Restorative Exercises and Adrenal Breathing Exercises is very helpful. As the body is

very sensitive to even the slightest stress, one must be careful to adjust the intensity and

frequency to match the body's state to avoid triggering further crashes. For example, 80

percent breathing intensity may not be tolerated during a crash and should be

adjusted down to 50 percent or less. Improper breathing techniques, such as

prolonged holding, or shallow breathing can also increase sympathetic tone and

trigger further adrenal crashes.

Dietary Adjustments. Hypoglycemia and metabolic imbalances are common during an

adrenal crash. Proper dietary adjustment focuses on stabilizing blood sugar by

balancing the amount of carbohydrate, protein, and fat in the diet. Gastric assimilation

is often compromised during a crash. The proper delivery system of macro-nutritional

form needs to be considered to facilitate absorption and nutrient delivery to the

cell. For example, raw milk may be superior to regular milk, and raw egg is better than

cooked egg in such cases. Those who have had severe crashes might not be able to tolerate

regular food and therefore need to be on a special chicken broth and raw colostrums for

foundational nutritional support. Severe cases might actually need hospital admission for

total parental nutrition.

Electrolyte Adjustments. A common symptom of Adrenal Fatigue is salt craving due to

the sodium imbalance caused by hormonal dysfunction. This imbalance is usually

worse during a crash. The rebalance process needs to be carefully titrated and

controlled to avoid making the situation worse. Too much sodium relative to water may

lead to hypertension and too little water may lead to dehydration and compound the crash.

Too much water relative to sodium may lead to dilutional hyponatremia. Unfortunately,

laboratory values may be normal during the crash and will not be abnormal until the crash is

well advanced. Those on diuretics or medications who have a history of high blood pressure

need to be especially careful. Symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, headache, malaise, and

foggy thinking are common. Severe case may actually need hospital admission.

Nutritional Supplement Adjustments. Administration of nutrients during an adrenal crash

requires careful consideration. Blindly taking the same dosage of supplements during a

crash as before the crash can worsen the fatigue. The state of the body is very

different during a crash.Animals under stress, for example, need up to ten times more

vitamin C compared to normal. Some of the key determinants of the amount of nutrients

to take during a crash include biological constitution, clearance state, history of

paradoxical reaction and autonomic system sensitivity. For example, those with low

clearance state will benefit greatly if nutrients are temporarily reduced during the crash. On

the other hand, increasing the nutrient level during a crash or immediately thereafter can be

beneficial to those with normal clearance states as the body needs more during a stressful

crisis. Taking advantage of this can turn a potentially devastating crash into a sweet

honeymoon, a welcome event for all.

Adrenal Crash and

Recovery Cycle - Part 2

By: Michael Lam, MD, MPH

www.DrLam.com

Crash to Honeymoon

While an adrenal crash is one of the most dreaded and difficult period to manage in Adrenal Fatigue,

there is often a silver lining.

During a crash, the body first goes through a series of adaptation to return to homeostasis. When

this fails, various internal emergency systems are activated automatically. The more intense the

crash, the more the response becomes evident and exaggerated. As a result, unpleasant and

paradoxical symptoms are made worse, this results in a worsening downward cascade of fatigue as

the crash progresses. At peak of the crash, the energy may be so low that one may be bedridden.

Eventually, the body usually is able to regain internal control, except for those who have very weak

constitutions. It then enters a stabilization period, to be followed by a preparation period before the

body starts its honeymoon period of recovery. This is graphically shown as Curve A in the

diagram below.

During the crash, the body is actually hungry for more nutrients to overcome stress. Much of

the internal reserve is utilized and metabolized in its effort to soften the crash. Nutrients needs

to be replenished as quickly as possible once utilized. Additional nutrients may be considered to

support the body during this process. Unfortunately, the body is concurrently in a low clearance state

during Adrenal Fatigue. In its best effort to conserve energy, many organ systems are put on a "slow

down" mode of function. Gastric absorption is slowed and liver detoxification rate is reduced. As

excretory capacity is compromised, breakdown byproducts accumulate within the body and turn

toxic. Symptoms such as brain fog, joint pain, muscle ache, etc are common as a result, making the

crash worse or triggering subsequent rolling crashes. Extra nutrients administered during this time of

low clearance state can lead to a variety of toxic and paradoxical reactions. Instead of getting better,

the crash worsens. This is graphically shown as Curve D in the following diagram:

Those in a low clearance state should therefore temporarily avoid additional nutrients during an

adrenal crash. Nutrients should be titrated downwards to allow the body to first clear existing

metabolites out of the system in order for the body to stabilize as shown in Curve A in the diagram

above. Aggressive detoxification such as enema, cleanses, massages and acupuncture

should also be avoided unless under professional guidance, as they can worsen the

condition as more toxins are released, leading to a re-toxification reaction. This is shown as

Curve D in the diagram above.

Those with a stable or normal clearance states, on the other hand, can tolerate more nutrients

during or after a crash. Additional nutrients can be of great help to cushion the crash intensity,

reducing unpleasant and paradoxical reactions as well as affecting an overall faster entry to the

recovery phase during the crash (Curve B in above diagram) or at the peak of the crash (Curve C in

above diagram). With proper timing and dosage, these nutrients can have significant benefits. Not

only is the crash intensity reduced, but the body can be propelled into the honeymoon period of the

recovery phase directly from the crash phase, resulting in an earlier recovery. The stabilization and

preparation period can be bypassed. One can go directly from crash to honeymoon, as shown

in Curve B and C in the above diagram.

Clearly, determining the clearance state is an important parameter in any adrenal crash

management program. Unfortunately, there is no laboratory test available in determining the

clearance state and thus no automated program to facilitate the recovery process. However, an

experienced clinician is usually able to determine the clearance state based on a detailed

medical and nutrient reaction history. Seeking the proper qualified specialist is therefore

critical for those who frequently experience crashes.

Duration of an Adrenal Crash and Recovery Cycle

Once a crash has occurred, one of the most difficult questions to answer is the length of crash and

its subsequent recovery period. Sometimes, one can crash and recover within a few hours. On the

other end of the spectrum, the complete cycle can take a few months. There is no quantitative

measurement that can precisely calculate or predict cycle duration. The best estimate comes

from a combination of past history, clinician's experience, and the state of adrenal function

immediately prior to the crash (also called baseline).

Let us examine how Adrenal Fatigue staging at baseline correlates with cycle duration. The following

figure represents a graph of the average speed of crash and recovery as it relates to various stages

of AF.

The more advanced the Adrenal Fatigue, the faster and the more intense is the Crash Phase.

In other words, those in Stage 3C or 3D Adrenal Fatigue crash much faster and with deeper

intensity compared to those in stages 1 and 2.

The Recovery Phase characteristic and duration also varies greatly depending on the state of

adrenal function immediately pre-crash (baseline). Recovery for those with Adrenal Fatigue

stage 1 tends to occur quickly. As adrenal weakness increases, the duration of Recovery

Phase increases exponentially. In other words, stage 2 recovery may be doubled that of stage

1, and stage 3A many times that of stage 2. Those in stage 3C or 3D may need recovery time

as much as 30 times or more longer than those in stage 1 for the same level of crash

intensity.

The adrenals, even after recovery, are generally weaker with each crash, regardless of the

stage.The degree of weakness may not be significant to the sufferer in stage 1 or 2, but can

generally be detected if careful attention is paid to the details of daily function. The signs, symptoms,

intensity, and the nature of stressors are subjective in nature. What is considered intense for one

person may not be for another. Many factors are involved, in addition to each body being different.

Descriptions of crashes are therefore qualitative and not quantitative in nature. There is no precise

way to accurately mathematically standardize each crash over a large and statistically significant

sample base. Thus, forecasting total cycle time based on crash intensity is at best a clinical

guesstimate and not an exact science. Adrenal Fatiguesufferers have a tendency to expect faster

recovery time than usual because they are used to the same level of stressors producing a

shorter cycle in the past. This expectation is often unrealistic.The understanding of this is

critical to properly managing recovery expectations as well as the design of a comprehensive

program because proper time needs to be allotted for the body to heal itself. It is not realistic to

expect a stage 3C sufferer to have the short Recovery Phase of one that has stage 2 Adrenal

Fatigue unless the former is under expert care. The dosage of nutrients used in stage 3C recovery is

therefore necessarily different. One of the most common recovery mistakes is over

administration of nutrients in those with advanced Adrenal Fatigue especially during crashes.

This often leads to failed recovery and repeated crashes in a downward cascade resembling

a waterfall. A good clinician with extensive experience is the key to navigate through adrenal

crashes. A trial and error approach common of most self-navigation programs through this

unchartered water can do more damage than good to the body.

By understanding this progression, we will be able to properly manage and match nutritional

recommendations to the body's physiological progression and needs.

Adrenal Recovery Phase

The Recovery Phase covers the time from the peak of the crash when the energy is lowest

until such time the body returns to its immediate pre-crash level of adrenal function and

energy level.Contrary to the crash phase, the Recovery Phase is harder to detect with clarity.

Sometimes recovery is fast, but often it can be slow and laden with frequent setbacks. The

more advanced the Adrenal Fatigue, the less possibility of a 100% recovery.

Under ideal or professionally managed conditions, the Recovery Phase is marked by multiple mini-

cycles each consisting of three components: preparation, honeymoon, and plateau. Each mini-cycle

can range from a few days to a few weeks. The weaker the adrenals, the more such mini-cycles are

needed and the longer each mini-cycle will last to return to pre-crash level of function. Such mini-

cycle may also be a set-up for follow-up rolling crashes if not handled properly.

The successful recovery's post-recovery energy is generally still below the level of pre-crash levels

in most situations. It is not uncommon to have a second or third dip or setbacks during the entire

recovery process. For some, there is a prolonged period of stabilization before the first recovery

mini-cycle begins. This is very common especially in those with Adrenal Fatigue stage 3 or beyond.

On the extreme, some do not recover at all but instead progress to the next crash after a period of

stabilization.

Overtime however, one can usually detect a definite Recovery Phase following each major crash

phase if one pays careful attention to the swings. Compare to an easy-to-track-down leg of the

adrenal crash, the recovery curve can be flat with only minor improvements. The more severe the

adrenal crash and the weaker the adrenals, the more difficult it is to spot this. The following figure

shows the various recovery curves possible.

Curve A represents a normal recovery with many mini-recovery cycles along with inevitable

setbacks, but a gradual up trend in adrenal function.

Curve B represents an accelerated recovery occurring usually in those with early stages Adrenal

Fatigue (stage 1 and 2), or those with very strong constitution. This curve is also associated with

those who are able to go from the crash phase to honeymoon period directly, usually under

professional guidance. This is the most desirable curve.

Curve C represents a prolonged stabilization period and delayed recovery common in those with

Adrenal Exhaustion (stage 3)

Curve D presents a failed recovery after a moderate stabilization period with progression to a

subsequent adrenal crash common in those with weak constitution and adrenal exhaustion. This is

the least desirable.

All four types of recovery curve are possible in any stage of Adrenal Fatigue, though the delayed and

failed curve is more prominent in the more advanced stages of adrenal weakness as well as those

with weak constitution.

Stage 1 and 2 Adrenal Fatigue as well as those under optimized recovery programs are

frequently associated with recovery curves resembling curves A and B, regardless of

constitution. Stage 3, stage 4, weak constitution, and self-guided recovery programs are

more associated with curves C and D. It is extremely rare for an Adrenal Fatigue stage 3 to

exhibit recovery following that of curves B unless under proper guidance. In fact, the natural

progression for stage 3 Adrenal Fatigue is slow decompensation, following curve D if nothing

is done or if over-zealous programs are administered by inexperienced hands. Those with a

strong constitution and professionally managed are the ones with the highest likelihood to achieve a

recovery curve similar to curve B.

Unless the adrenal glands are given the proper tools and nurtured back to health naturally

(preferably professionally), most recoveries are eventually followed by subsequent

worsening crashes as the natural progression of this condition.

Common Signs of Adrenal Recovery

Signs of adrenal recovery are usually less prominent and more insidious. They include:

The many symptoms of adrenal crash appearing to be stabilizing and not getting worse.

A sense of calm returning and feeling a better ability to deal with stress.

Anxiety has reduced.

Sense of hypoglycemic is reducing.

More energy to do things that are not possible during a crash, such as washing dishes or

gardening.

Improving sleep, though it may not be perfect.

Less salt craving.

Temporary worsening of estrogen dominance, PMS, and menstrual cycle irregularity.

Temporary rejection of nutritional supplements that has been beneficial.

Sudden positive and exaggerated response to nutrients to be followed by negative response.

Dreams during sleep that were previously absent.

Return of menstrual period, PMS, and ovulation pain.

It is important to note that stabilization is part of the recovery process as mentioned above. In

other words, if the symptoms of crash are not worsening, the body is likely in the transition

from crash to recovery and in stabilization portion of the Recovery Phase.

Recovery Management

The main focus of recovery is quite different from that of an adrenal crash because the total

recovery process is usually complicated and drawn out. While the adrenal crash phase

usually takes a few hours to a few days to complete its course, the complete recovery phase

can take weeks and sometimes months. Those with weak constitutions are especially vulnerable

to an overall delayed recovery phase. The main focus of adrenal crash management is to

reduce crash intensity and duration. An analogy would be like quickly assembling a safety net to

catch a falling person in order to soften the harsh landing. The main focus of recovery

management is to provide the body with enough tools for it to heal itself even though it might

take a long time. Adrenal recovery management is like leading a blind man across a stream. The

motto is to go slowly and gently, one foot at a time. One foot is always ahead trying to feel where

and how secure the next rock is before actually put the body weight on it. That is how one avoids

falling into the water, or in the case of adrenal recovery, crashing.

Think of the recovery process as running a long distance race instead of a sprint. You need first to

be strong enough to get up, start, and finish the race. That requires systematic planning, training,

and budget for setbacks. At first you may only be able to finish by walking. Slowly you improve and

start working out the speed. Most successful running programs stress a gradual and systematic

approach, with intermittent challenge runs along the way as a gauge of your body's reserve and

energy level.

The body is not a light switch that can be turned on and off at will. Adrenal Fatigue that takes years

to develop should be given ample time to heal itself. A common mistake in recovery management

is to focus on a speedy recovery, which sacrifices the more important concept of rebuilding

the underlying reserve. Pushing the body ahead of its readiness is a recipe for crashes and

ultimately recovery failure.

A successful recovery management program incorporates the following factors:

Proper stabilization immediately after an adrenal crash. After a crash has occurred, the

body needs a period of stabilization. Unless the earlier described crash-to-honeymoon

transition is affected, the body should be allowed time to calm down and

stabilize. Emergency systems triggered during the crash need to be de-activated by

reducing the frequency of alarm signals. This is best accomplished by adjusting diet, lifestyle,

and nutritional supplementation to match the functional level of the adrenal system. As the

body stabilizes, paradoxical reactions gradually resolve and the low clearance state

improves. As a result, follow up crashes are less easily triggered.

Prepare the body for the honeymoon period. After the body has been stabilized, a

thorough examination of the various dysfunctional systems is conducted. The systems with

the most prominent dysregulation should be addressed first. For example, those who

have Ovarian-Adrenal-Thyroid Axis Imbalance (OATS) may be thyroid dominant. Their

primary symptoms are more related to thyroid dysfunction than ovarian or adrenal

irregularity. Symptoms of hypothyroidism such as sluggishness, weight gain, and dry skin are

more severe compared to ovarian hormone dysfunction symptoms such as PMS and

menstrual irregularities. Similarly, some may have dominant adrenals, prominent

sympathetic symptoms, and adrenaline rushes. They are "wired and tired", a symptom of

autonomic nervous system imbalance. Focus should be placed on identifying and

prioritizing the system to heal first during the preparation period. As much as

possible, the priority is to help the body heal the most damaged system. The total

recovery process is only as strong as the weakest link. In the examples above, more

emphasis should be placed on fortifying the thyroid and the adrenals respectively as long as

the body can tolerate it.

Knowing which is the most dysregulated system and understanding how to prioritize is a

clinical skill that requires a thorough patient history and a good understanding of the

underlying body physiology. The usual clinical presentation in an adrenal crash and its

immediate aftermath is confusing and convoluted. Fatigue can be so overwhelming that one

is misled into focusing only on regaining energy instead of fixing the underlying picture. The

temptation is to fix the symptom that is most complained about; most of the time, that is

usually fatigue. Although it might help in the short term, it does not help identify the weakest

link. A low energy state can be the result of low blood sugar or electrolyte imbalance, for

example. These point to two quite different root causes. Low blood sugar points to metabolic

dysregulation, while electrolyte imbalance can point to aldosterone insufficiency. Simply

boosting energy without attending to the root dysfunction is not going to help the adrenal

recover over time.

The smoke needs to be separated from the fire to clearly identify the root and dominant

cause. In the case of dealing with fatigue mentioned above, here are some further

considerations. Morning fatigue is usually an indication of peaked-out cortisol output.

Late morning fatigue is usually a sign of cortisol mal-adaptation rather than output.

Late afternoon fatigue is usually due to sugar and metabolic imbalances. Evening

fatigue is suggestive of baseline cortisol inadequacy. Fatigue is but an end result. It is

therefore of paramount importance to take a detailed history and follow the symptoms

to the root cause to avoid prescribing the wrong therapy.

Many with fatigue also concurrently complain of insomnia. Sleep onset insomnia (inability to

fall asleep) can be indicative of sympathetic overtone or excessive cortisol. Sleep

maintenance insomnia (waking up in the middle of the night) usually points to some form of

metabolic dysregulation in addition to cortisol regulation issues. Because most people

present multiple symptoms, the clinical picture can be very convoluted and confusing. If one

presents good morning energy but late afternoon fatigue, focus should be placed on

normalizing the afternoon low by modulating blood sugar level as a priority rather than simply

administering steroid or stimulating compounds to prop up the energy level at that time.

Without proper normalization, the body will be struggling every day to maintain homeostasis.

It will not have enough reserve left to rebuild itself. It is unlikely able to enter the honeymoon

phase with vigor and recovery will be delayed or failed.

Take properly dosed nutrients to match adrenal function for recovery. The judicious use of

nutritional supplements based and their continuous adjustments throughout the

recovery phase is a key component to any successful program. As the body condition

changes, the dosage, delivery system and timing of nutrients need to be changed in order to

give the body maximum support without triggering crashes. There may be a prolonged

period of stabilization without significant improvement, or there may be a time where the

body tends to reset and behave erratically to supplement what was helpful before.

Sometimes the resetting period may be accompanied by unexpected sudden exaggerated

and positive responses. Learning to identify this resetting time and taking advantage of

it by titrating nutrient dosage is more of an art and not a science. It requires extensive

experience and will be discussed below in more detail.

Planned rest after each incremental improvement. The adrenal recovery curve is not a linear

event with straight up improvements, but a step-up progression. The goal of a successful

recovery program is to elicit small incremental and steady improvements resembling

multiple stair steps going up over time without crashes. While nutrients are used to

affect a higher energy state and repair previously dysfunctional systems, they can also take

a toll on the body during the repair process.

Recovery is a stressful process as far as the body is concerned. This important point is

often missed. Energy is needed to process nutrients as well as to metabolize breakdown

products so that it can be excreted from the body without toxic building up. Energy is

expanded to absorb and process good nutrients. This can be taxing to the body over time.

After each incremental improvement, time needs to be allotted for the body to rest and

regroup to get ready for the next climb up. Making a conscious effort to force the body to rest

in order to build up its healing reserve is a sign of clinical excellence. It is important to allow

the body rest, as this is one of the best ways to reduce risk of follow up crashes.

Qualitative challenges to measure adrenal function at any point in time. Due to the lack of

quantitative laboratory tests, a battery of qualitative challenges are used continually

to assess the body's internal function and reserve during the entire recovery

process. The response to such challenges will signal the adrenal's reserve capacity, state of

clearance, nutrient tolerance, and capability to recover. Results of these challenges will

help the clinician formulate the right dosage, delivery system, timing and intensity of

nutrients, dietary recommendations, lifestyle modifications, and exercise programs.

Challenges are therefore, a very important part of the overall recovery strategy planning

process. We shall discuss this in greater detail below.

Prevent follow-up crashes that can set back the internal homeostasis. One of the hallmarks

of successful recovery is the lack of follow up crashes. Each adrenal crash is undesirable, as

it requires many more times the energy to recover. Those with advance Adrenal Fatigue

or weak constitutions simply cannot afford any crashes at all. The worse recovery

pattern possible is the fast recovery followed by many rolling crashes. Avoidance of

crashes is the primary goal of any good recovery management. This can be achieved by

giving the body extra supports so that its marginal reserve is increased. This conscious

prioritization is important. Speed of recovery takes a second seat compared to the assurance

of steady recovery. The weaker the constitution and the more advanced the stage of

adrenals are, the more important this becomes. The key to balancing the increase of

energy to avoid follow-up crashes rests largely on the dosage and delivery system of

nutrients. Too big a dose can increase the energy and recovery speed, but it carries a higher

risk of adrenal crash as the body can be compromised. Multiple crashes over time are a

sign of poor recovery and should be avoided at all cost.

Prepare a set of tools to prevent, abort, or soften future crashes. Not all nutrients are treated

the same way by the body. Certain ones are gentler, and others are harsher. The adrenal

recovery nutritional toolbox should have a good mix of all. The strong ones need to be

identified, and used sparingly. Gentle nutrients can be used more frequently. For example,

DHEA is generally more stimulatory than pregnenolone. Its use should therefore be reserved

for emergency situations such as crashes rather than used on a routine basis in the day-to-

day normal recovery process.Identifying such nutrients and saving it for a rainy day is a

sign of clinical excellence. As part of the adrenal crash management toolbox, these

nutrients are deployed once an unavoidable crash happens.

Failure to consider all the above factors is a common reason why most recovery programs

fail.Recovery management must be taken seriously if the goal is full recovery. What is commonly

forgotten is that Adrenal Fatigue, if left to itself, progresses negatively with aging. Invariably, crashes

will resurface again with time, and fatigue will advance if the previous healing process is

incomplete. Those who tend to ignore the importance of recovery management during early

stages usually become overly confident in self-management from previous successful

efforts. This is compounded by the fact that the majority of conventional physicians are of little help.

The tendency is then to continue to self-navigate using the same concept that worked before. This

usually involves rest, use of stimulatory compounds, and medications to suppress symptoms. Sad to

say that this strategy often backfires in those with advanced Adrenal Fatigue.

Proper recovery management is far more complicated than what meets the eye, especially for those

in advance Adrenal Fatigue. The weaker the adrenal function, the more critical proper recovery

management becomes. Patience is also required as many challenges, trials and errors are

inevitable even in the best of hands.During a crash, the proper type of food and nutrients ingested

becomes critical. Let us take a closer look.

Simple Food for a Simple Body

A body in severe down-regulation during adrenal crash is only interested in basic energy

input that it can use effectively without expending a lot of energy to get it. It will simply reject

everything else. Since energy comes from food, this means that the food we take in must be easy

to digest, assimilate, bought into the cell, and convert into energy quickly without a lot of

energy expenditure. Think of an infant. For the first few months after birth, an infant's full nutritional

needs can be met by taking in mother's milk alone. That is all baby requires at that point when the

gastric intestinal tract has yet to be fully developed. Months later, food can slowly be introduced, one

step at a time. This gradual process delivers nutrients to the system that matches the body's

digestive apparatus maturation. Any attempt to give solid or whole food, or even worse, processed

food, to a baby too soon will lead to vomiting and indigestion. The body will reject food, even

thought it is nutritious, if it is before its time.

In advanced Adrenal Fatigue or during adrenal crashes, the body is returning to a simple

state. The weaker the adrenals, the less the body is able to tolerate complex and processed

foods as it simply does not have the energy to divest to break down these complex

foods. Wheat, gluten, and diary products are particularly problematic as these are more

difficult to digest. Increasing bowl irritation (with symptoms such as constipation or diarrhea),

bloating, delayed food sensitivity, and gas are signs that the gastro intestinal tract is compromised

and the body taxed. Vomiting may ensue if we continue to ignore the body's signals asking us to

simplify our food or reduce the quantity. Those with advanced Adrenal Fatigue therefore will often

find it necessary to reduce the complexity of food intake. They may have to be pureed to be

absorbed.

Those with extreme Adrenal Fatigue need nutrition at the most basic level-rich in nutrient and

easy to digest. This means food usually in liquid form. These include raw colostrum, raw

milk, raw egg, chicken broth, and rice porridge. The amount needs adjustment to match the

body's ability to absorb. Some can only take a few teaspoons at a time and need significant rest in

between.

Simple Nutrients for a Simple Body

As the body returns to simplicity during a crash, nutritional supplementation considerations also

need adjustment to the most basic kinds and those that are most bioavailable at the cellular

level. Complex nutrients are of little use when the body is unable to break it down into proper

components for proper absorption and cellular delivery. One must avoid nutritional

supplements that are complex, including certain herbs. Glandular can also be problematic due

to intrinsic low clearance of the body that usually comes with advance adrenal weakness.

The volume of supplements also requires adjustment. Over-supplementation is a common

mistake.Many advanced Adrenal Fatigue sufferers are taking a basket of nutritional supplements to

sustain their energy level. This approach is risky. Unless properly titrated, unmonitored intake of

complex or stimulatory compounds to enhance energy flow usually ends badly. This becomes

worse when a nutrient that has positive effect early on can turn negative as Adrenal Fatigue

worsens. This accounts for the many paradoxical reactions we see.

All supplements must be carefully selected. Nutrients not properly matched to the body's

requirement at any stage are a sure recipe for failure. After reaching maximum stimulatory levels, it

is usually only a matter of time before the body crashes. Supplements, no matter how beneficial, are

only as good as the body's ability to absorb and process. A weak body has limited energy to digest

nutrient and thus is not able to garner the beneficial effect of the supplement as a result of poor

absorption. Furthermore, energy used to digest supplements can further drain the body of its

already low reserve if too many supplements are taken in a day. More nutrients at a time

when the body is crashing or down-regulating are therefore not necessarily better. It may

have worked before when the body's reserves were large. In a weak body heading towards

simplicity, this strategy can backfire. A personalized nutrient program is necessary, using only a few

nutrients most needed by the body. These have to be absorbed through the gastro-intestinal tract in

a most energy neutral manner, and made bio-available to each cell in the most efficient manner.

Understanding the concept of having nutrient type and dosage match the body's need in

every stage is key before one can plan a proper recovery program. Knowing the body's unique

nutrient history is therefore a critical component in tailoring the right dose and the proper delivery

system to affect maximum healing.

Only the most basic nutrient most needed by the body should be used when the body is

vulnerable. Undesirable supplements should be terminated gradually. Abrupt cessation

should be avoided and care must be taken to avoid any rebound or withdrawal effect.

In addition to selecting the right supplement, micronutrient delivery to the cell is also a key

factor. Tablets need restraint, due to high content of binders and fillers. Powder high in sugar

is likewise something to avoid. Liquids are best, but only if the proper delivery system is

employed. Use various forms of the same nutrients to affect maximum bioavailability

because each form has its own unique characteristic in terms of potency, half-life,

absorption, and breakdown curve. A custom blend and mixture using various forms can have

potent synergistic effects well above any single form of the nutrient.

The take home lesson is that nutrient is only good when it matches the body's ability to

absorb. A normal body has plenty of reserve to take in complex and processed food without

difficulty. The Adrenal Fatigue body is very different. It is a body trying to return to simplicity. This

requires simple food and simple nutrients delivered properly for maximum benefit.

Fortunately, if one takes proper action using natural compounds and proper nutrition the

adrenal crash is not permanent. The body possesses self-healing powers if the right tools are

available. Over time, a weak adrenal can strengthen. As this happen, fatigue subsides and energy

returns. Adrenal Fatigue is therefore reversible, and recovery possible. As the Adrenal Fatigue

heals and health improves, other foods can once again be ingested, normal stress tolerated,

and normal life activities can resume.

Having looked at the entire recovery management process as a whole, we now turn to specific areas

where special attention is required.

Stabilization / Plateau Period

Many are discouraged when there is no immediate restoration of energy level after a crash and

become impatient. Many equate adrenal function to energy level. Many feel, after a short time, that

they are simply going nowhere and "treading water" as if there were no continuous increase in

energy level. This time is commonly referred to as the stabilization period if it follows a crash,

and plateau period if it immediately follows a recovery cycle.

Remember that the adrenals secrete over 50 different hormones that affect all parts of the body.

Some hormones act quickly, while others take some time. Energy is important, but is not the only

parameter of recovery. Those who are impatient or narrow-minded often resort to the use of

stimulatory compounds or medications to produce a faster energy response. This approach is

dangerous and has a higher chance of backfiring down the road. Energy needs to be properly

modulated to be able to work harmoniously with the rest of the body and work. Too much energy

without proper counter-balances will eventually lead to an overall weaker state of adrenal function.

One can end up being energized (wired) and tired at the same time, a classic characteristic of

advance Adrenal Exhaustion. A critical part of proper adrenal recovery is nurturing the

adrenals back to a balanced state of function in order to minimize subsequent crashes during

this time.

After a major crash, the body often needs a period of stabilization prior to beginning the first recovery

mini-cycle up. This first leg up is the most difficult because the body is weakest at this time. An

aggressive approach to stimulate the adrenals towards a fast recovery at this time can backfire and

is one of the common recovery mistakes seen in self-navigation programs. The body needs time to

regroup and reset itself. This may take weeks in those with advance Adrenal Fatigue (Stage 3

and 4). Pushing the body when it is not ready is a recipe for failure.

Allowing the body time to stabilize and using this time wisely to prepare the body with gentle

nurturing nutrients is a sign of clinical excellence. With this approach, a strong foundation is set

as the adrenal reserve is being rebuilt. This ensures a steady recovery and minimizes the risk of

subsequent crashes during the recovery process. Minor crashes may be unavoidable even under

the best of hands, especially if the adrenals are constitutionally weak. Some of the subtle indications

of an adrenal being rebuilt during the initial stabilization period are a gentle and gradual return of

calmness to everyday life, a better ability to deal with stress, and reduced anxiety when stressors

resurface. However on the surface, there may not be any significant improvement in energy

level from day to day. Fatigue continues to be troublesome. Yet, one can look back and

notice that crashes are more spaced out and sporadic, with less energy depletion when that

happens, and there exists a sense of calmness even when stressors surface. For this reason,

a well-utilized stabilization period is the most important part of the overall Recovery Phase.

The worse recovery scenario possible is when someone recovers quickly only to be followed

by more crashes that spiral down over time. This cascading waterfall must be avoided at all costs

as it weakens the body with reduced chances of successful recovery with each crash. The risk of

this can be minimized only if the adrenals have a chance to rebuild itself slowly and steadily

under proper guidance, and the best time to successfully accomplish this is during the initial

stabilization period of the Recovery Phase and the subsequent plateau period of each mini-

recovery cycle.

After each mini-recovery cycle up, there is a plateau period as well. This is similar to the stabilization

period; except that it only happens after the honeymoon period and not after an adrenal crash.

Allowing the body to rest during the plateau is important. After rest and consolidation of energy at

this level, the body will be ready for the preparation period to get ready for the next honeymoon

period of adrenal recovery. Not allowing the body to go through a plateau phase by pushing the body

with undue exertion, stress, aggressive medications and nutritional supplements will often increase

the risk of subsequent crashes.

Resetting State

Often times during the Recovery Phase, the body may go through a period where it tries to

reset and kick-start itself for reasons that are not well understood. Perhaps it is nature's last

resort of trying to help itself when all else fails. During a crash, the body often goes into an

emergency mode. This resetting may be part of the delayed survival mechanism that is activated

automatically. The timing of this resetting varies from person to person if it does occur. During the

resetting, the body suddenly behaves differently for no apparent reason. For example, certain

nutrients that have been helpful before may suddenly be rejected. Nutrients may also have a

sudden positive exaggerated response only to be followed by a negative response. This is a

turbulent time for the body where most sufferers are discouraged and do not understand what to do

next. The resetting state usually occurs sometime during the late initial stabilization period, late in

plateau period, or sometime during the preparation period during subsequent mini-recovery cycles.

Few pay attention to, or are on alert for, this event when it happens. Even fewer are attuned to

the significance of this minor but important phenomenon that is clinically evident but seldom

mentioned in any literature. This event may represent an opportunity to "kick-start" the

system and bring it to a higher level of function. When properly taken advantage of, this "kick-

start" process can propel the adrenals into the honeymoon period. Without taking advantage and

using this to "kick-start" the system during the resetting state, one can stay stagnant in the

preparation period for an extended period of time due to lack of impetus. This process is made

possible by taking advantage of the natural body's recovery rhythm. The body appears to be telling

us to stand aside and leave it alone during this resetting state. Most make the mistake of ignoring

the body's signal. Instead of pushing more nutrients at a time when the body does not welcome

them, it might be better to take a pause. Learning to listen to the body is often a wiser choice. After

a pause to reset body, the same nutrients may be restarted and the body welcomes them with

dramatic improvement. An astute clinician attuned to this will likely catch it as he or she is on

constant alert waiting for this. Recognizing such a window of opportunity and taking the right

action at the right time will greatly facilitate the body's progression to the honeymoon period

that otherwise would elude the sufferer. This is a sign of clinical excellence.Those who do not

recognize this or miss this window of opportunity may have delayed recovery, or

inadvertently make the condition worse by over-administering nutrients at a time when the

body does not react well to them. A common mistake is to assume that nutrients are "not

working" as fatigue levels seems to be getting worse, and that more is needed since those

nutrients have worked previously.

Qualitative Challenges

Quantitative challenges are routinely used in modern medicine to help the physician

understand the functional level of a given organ system. The most common is the cardiac stress

test for those who have chest pain. A person is placed on a treadmill to run while a machine

measures cardiac function. By challenging the heart to work and observing its response, physicians

are able to deduce the health of the heart and blockage of heart vessels. Endocrinologists routinely

use ACTH challenge tests to assess adrenal function. Tilt-table tests are used to help diagnose

those with dysautonomia. In the early days, these tests were all qualitative in nature. Thanks to

extensive research, standardization and quantifiable results have become the norm, and with that,

standardized protocols have become a reality.Unfortunately, such quantitative tests are not

available when it comes to Adrenal Fatigue. We resort to using qualitative challenges, which

is less sophisticated and more subjective, but nevertheless still valuable.

Qualitative challenges are subjective assessments tools designed to assess specific

functional statuses of the body's internal systems. Results are based on the subject's personal

experience rather than a quantifiable numeric number. These challenges are used to give the

clinician a better sense of the body's internal function with the lack of accurate, sensitive and

clinically well-correlated laboratory studies.Because of its subjective nature, there is a high

potential for bias and inaccuracies.

A qualitative challenge used in Adrenal Fatigue commonly involves purposely-designed

adjustments of nutrients such as vitamins and minerals, dietary components such as protein

and carbohydrates; exercise such as aerobics or weights; lifestyle factors such as sleep

habits are used to test the body's response, both positively and negatively. For example, a

sodium challenge involves taking a measured bolus of salt rather than just salting food more. Its

purpose is not to quench the existing salt craving only. The body's response to the sodium challenge

indirectly tells us the status of fluid and electrolyte balance. Because sodium regulation is tied to the

hormone aldosterone, the body's response to the sodium challenge gives us a good idea of its

aldosterone function. Since aldosterone is a hormone made in the adrenal glands, we also have a

better sense of adrenal function. This is therefore a rough and indirect way of assessing

adrenal function. In academic medicine, this may be considered crude and unsophisticated.

However, this method is a great and simple tool for analyzing Adrenal Fatigue. Sometimes, simple

challenges can sometimes yield far better insight than any laboratory test.

Positive as well as negative responses, when carried out under professional guidance, serve

as indicators of reserve a system has for that particular function. In the case of the sodium

challenge, for example, a body in need of sodium (salt) will respond very positively with increased

energy when salt is taken. A body that is overloaded may respond negatively with nausea and

vomiting. A body with circulation and heart problems might lead to higher blood pressure or edema.

A body that needs more sodium but are unable to balance fluid might respond with a mixed picture.

An astute clinician will be able to use these qualitative results as a clinical guide to formulate a

proper recovery program for that single item - sodium.

Salt craving is also used as a monitoring tool. As Adrenal Fatigue improves, salt craving usually

reduces. Salt therefore serves multiple roles. It has challenge, therapeutic, and monitoring roles.

Knowing how to use this single compound properly can give us a good sense of where the body

stands not only as it relates to this one nutrient, but also on how it can relate to other nutrients as

well. For example, sodium is tied to water, and is inversely tied to potassium. Knowing sodium

tolerance will give us information about how to manage potential fluid and potassium imbalances as

well. This can be far more insightful than any laboratory test.

Challenges using different nutrients are deployed continually during the recovery phase to

assess the effectiveness of current therapeutic agents, test the reaction to possible new

agents prior to starting, and assess the clearance state. Continually using challenges to feel the

path is like having a walking stick in hand to have a better assessment of what lies ahead prior to

even putting your foot on the next rock. It makes the recovery process more pleasant, smooth and

safe.

Nutrient Challenges

Generally, challenges involve the use of nutritional supplements, as their results are easily evident in

most cases if done right. Challenges are generally divided into four broad categories:

Bolus Challenges involve significant introduction of single or host of nutrients designed to

elicit specific positive or negative responses.

Step Up challenges involving gradual increase of a single or host of nutrients designed to

elicit specific positive or negative response.

Step Down challenges involve gradual decrease of a single or host of nutrients designed to

see how the body reacts with reduced nutrients concerned.

Elimination challenges involve purposeful elimination of previously beneficial or neutral

nutrients to see how the body reacts without such nutrient for a short period of time.

It is very important not to equate a positive outcome of a challenge as the only way to a

successful challenge. In certain cases, one might be looking for a negative response. In other

words, not all challenges need to be positive in order to be a successful challenge. A successful

challenge is one that elicits a certain response from the body that leads us to draw certain

conclusions and thus a better formulation of the overall recovery plan. For example, a neutral

response and absence of diarrhea when large doses of magnesium are administered would mean

that body has yet to reach bowel tolerance level (BTL). If we wish to know the BTL, we want to elicit

a negative response. In this case, we increase the magnesium load until diarrhea is experienced.

Positive and negative results are closely monitored with respect to each specific nutrient relative to

the challenge taken. The onset of anxiety and fatigue when DHEA is administered may indicate a

low clearance state. A sense of a morning hangover after a melatonin challenge the night before

may indicate circadian dysfunction or overload.

Almost any nutrient can be used as a challenge substrate. Prior to commencing any nutrient

challenge, one should have an idea of the body's previous nutrient reaction history. For

example, let us say a person has taken ascorbic acid before at 1000 mg without adverse effect. This

neutral history serves to qualify ascorbic acid as a potential nutrient that can be used if it is selected

to be part of the challenge toolbox. Those who cannot tolerate ascorbic acid because of gastric

irritation, for example, will preclude the use of this nutrient as a challenge substrate. Challenges

should not be started with a compound that was not previously exposed to the body due to

the risk of possible negative reactions. A scaled approach is best if the body is constitutionally

weak or low in clearance. For example, most people develop diarrhea when BTL is reached with

high dose oral ascorbic acid. Because the BTL varies from person to person, one should start off

with low doses and scale up accordingly. To use this nutrient at a dose above the BTL in the

beginning would not yield any results other than diarrhea.

The many different forms of nutrients can also have its unique challenge characteristics. In

the example above, ascorbic acid tends to be fast acting and "spiky". Its use as a challenge

substrate is best when it is desirous to know how the adrenals react to clear compounds that are

stimulatory. Fat-soluble vitamin C, due to its more gentle and slower absorption characteristics, for

example, would not be a good substrate to use for this purpose. It is, however, an excellent

challenge if one wants to study the effect of vitamin C in a body that is highly sensitive to regular

ascorbic acid.

The identification of the possible pool of qualified nutrients therefore, depends on the history

as well as from actual use of the nutrient in the clinical setting scaled to match the body's

tolerance. A careful and detailed nutrient reaction history can serve as a good guide to

start. Many with Adrenal Fatigue are already on a battery of natural compounds. Careful evaluation

of these compounds on an individual basis can help to contribute to the entire selection process.

The list of challenge substrates is vast and varied. Every natural compound has its unique

characteristics and use. Having a detail physiological understanding of each of these

compounds is a key prerequisite prior to starting any nutrient challenge. An astute and

experienced clinician is the key to this process due to the subtle differences among natural

compounds that are not easy to detect.

Here are some nutrients and their possible uses as challenge substrates:

Vitamin C can be used to evaluate clearance state and adrenal function.

Evening primrose oil can be used to evaluate estrogenic function.

Glutathione can be used to evaluate nutrient recycling capability.

DHEA can be used to evaluate androgen hormone function.

Progesterone can be used to evaluate internal biosis.

Taurine can be used to evaluate thyroid function.

Tyrosine can be used to evaluate neurotransmitter function.

Pregnenolone can be used to evaluate the cortisol synthesis pathway in the adrenal glands.

The dose necessary for a successful challenge varies greatly from nutrient to nutrient as well

as from person to person. In the case of vitamin C, some can experience significant responses

with as little as 10 mg, while others will need well over 10,000 mg. In addition to dosage, the delivery

system has to be considered. Different forms of the same substrate also have different properties.

Liquid form may be more desirable in certain situations as they tend to be absorbed faster into the

blood stream. Topical forms of delivery system are particularly important when it comes to those who

are highly sensitive.

It is also important to note that previously intolerable substrates may be reintroduced later again as a

challenged nutrient and used as a yardstick of the recovery process. This tolerance challenge is

clinically very useful.

It is very important to remember that while nutrients designed to be used during the

challenge process may have positive therapeutic value, many nutrients are not suitable for

long-term therapeutic use for a wide variety of reasons. For example, DHEA used during a

challenge may help increase energy and reduce fatigue. Some will continue to use DHEA for a long

period of time in order to have this energizing effect. However, long-term use may lead to excessive

hair loss and acne as well due to the possible androgenic effect. Extrapolating a positive therapeutic

outcome from the use of a challenge substrate into long-term use can be a major mistake.

System Specific Challenges

Challenges can also be designed to assess and target specific systems. Each protocol is

designed to assess the functional level of a body system. They involve the use of nutrients,

dietary input, and lifestyle adjustments in combinations. Here are some examples:

Metabolic system may be assessed by way of carbohydrate or protein challenge. For example,

taking more protein before bedtime can point to the body's metabolic state in the middle of the night

when blood sugar level may be low. The response will point to the body's ability to process glucose.

This can also be very useful in assessing those with metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance,

hypoglycemia, or sleep maintenance insomnia.

Sympathetic nervous system function may be assessed by a forced deep breathing challenge

or nutrients such as tyrosine and selected herbs. The response will point to the body's response

to sympathetic overtone and its adrenaline state.

Ingesting hard-to-digest-proteins and its assimilation may assess the gastro-intestinal

system.DHEA, glutamine, and magnesium are also valuable in assessing issues of irritable bowel

and leaky gut. Due to the complicity and potential of negative and sometimes unpredictable

responses, all challenges should be done only under experienced professional guidance in a

controlled environment. Improper challenges can trigger adrenal crash and make Adrenal Fatigue

worse.

With proper qualitative challenges, the clinician can gain valuable insights far beyond any

laboratory test. This facilitates the formulation of a good recovery management program

customized to the body's needs.

Duration of Adrenal Recovery Phase and Recovery Factor (RF)

One key question remains - how long does the recovery take?

The duration of the Recovery Phase varies as it is dependent of the Adrenal Fatigue stage. The

more advanced the Adrenal Fatigue stage, the longer will be the Recovery Phase.

Recovery factor (RF) is a quantitative measurement of the Recovery Phase duration relative

to crash phase duration. This helps us to appreciate the time it takes for recovery vs. the time

of the crash. RF is a numerical number derived by dividing the recovery time by the crash

time. If the crash duration is 1 day and the subsequent recovery duration to return to immediate pre-

crash baseline is 4 days, then RF = 4/1 = 4. In other words, it takes the body four times longer to

recover relative to crash. The higher the RF number, the more depleted the adrenal reserve and the

weaker the adrenal glands. RF ranges from 1-20, with the lowest number in stage 1 and the

highest number in stage 4. RF gives us a rough measurement of one's adrenal function.

The RF number can vary due to tremendous individual variation. Note that as Adrenal Fatigue

stage progresses, the average RF increases. The average RF for stage 2 is 2, while the

average RF for stage 3C is 7. The RF range also increases. The RF range for stage two varies

from 1 to 3, or a 3 fold range. The RF range for someone in stage 3D can range from 6 to 30, a 5

fold increase. Those at stage 3D can expect a recovery time of 30 times or longer compared to

stage 1 Adrenal Fatigue. The weaker the adrenals, the wider the range with a bias towards

slower and less than optimal recovery. It is rare to see anyone with RF of 3 in stage 3D Adrenal

Fatigue unless under professional guidance. It is common for most in stage 3D to have RF from 6 to

30.

Another way to look at this: those in stage 1 Adrenal Fatigue can expect to spend 50% of the total

cycle in crash and Recovery Phase each. As Adrenal Fatigue worsens, one can expect to spend a

proportionally longer period of time in Recovery Phase relative to crash phase. A typical stage 3C

sufferer can expect to spend about 13% of the total cycle time in the crash phase and 87% of the

time in Recovery Phase. The following table depicts a summary of clinical observations. Each

number represents a unit in time, usually day(s).

Adrenal Fatigue Stage

Average Days of Adrenal Crash

Average Days it

Takes to Recover

Ave. Total Cycle Time

Average Recovery

Factor

Crash Time as

% of Total Cycle

Recovery Time as %

of Total Cycle

Recovery Factor Range

1 1 1 2 1 50 50 1 to 2

2 1.35 2.5 4 2 33 66 1 to 3

3A 2 5 8 3 25 75 2 to 6

3B 2 8 10 4 20 80 3 to 7

3C 2 14 16 7 13 87 4 to 10

3D 2 24 26 12 8 92 6 to 30

In absolute terms, the RF increases greatly in Stage 3C as this is where the greatest functional

decline occurs. The RF increases by 43% from Stage 3B to 3C vs. an increase of 33% from Stage

3A to 3B. This bias continues to be carried onward as one enters Stage 3D from 3C. It comes as no

surprise that those in Stage 3D spend 92% of their time in recovery and only 8% in crash on

average. It is therefore imperative that those with advance Adrenal Fatigue avoid crashes as

much as possible.

Successful and Failed Crash and Recovery Cycle

The following graphs depict what a successful and a failed recovery program should look like.

Line A shows a normal crash of average intensity followed by a typical prolonged recovery time

common in Adrenal Fatigue stage 3C. There are frequent setbacks during a slow and steady

recovery.

Line B shows the same crash but under optimal recovery conditions. Such a recovery program does

not guarantee a total absence of a crash. Intermittent crashes are unavoidable. A successful

program, usually under experienced professional guidance, allows the sufferer a learning

experience on how to recognize a crash before it comes, make available ahead of time

customized tools so that if a crash does occur due to circumstances beyond control, there is

immediate deployment of such tools to effect a slower and lower intensity crash. The goal is

a less symptomatic crash, a "soft-landing". Some unpleasantness may be unavoidable, but

the symptoms will be under control and manageable with no panic. The risk of rolling into

another crash is minimized. It is not unusual to have a drastic reduction in crash frequency

and symptoms if properly managed professionally. A successful program will also allow the

sufferer to effect a much faster Recovery Phase and thus an overall shorter total cycle time.

The shorter the cycle, the less unpleasantness and fatigue.

Line C this represents a failed program. Unfortunately most self-navigation programs fall into

this category, especially for those with advanced Adrenal Fatigue or weak constitution. After

the adrenal crash, recovery may appear to progress well. This is often due to administration of

stimulatory compounds that include medications, herbs and glandular to sustain unrealistic adrenal

function at a time when the adrenals needs to be nurtured with a carefully customized program

specific for the body's need. Programs using stimulatory compounds (natural or prescription) may

lead to outcome that appears to improve for a short time. The unsuspected sufferer is mislead into

thinking that the right recovery path has been chosen. This false sense of improvement eventually

fades as symptoms not only return but also become worse, resulting in a more severe second crash

as the body cannot handle prolonged stimulation. This second crash often leads to a lower state of

adrenal function below that of previous crash, setting a new low. This downward cascade is

repeated far too often, and with each failure, the body becomes weaker. These crashes propel

the body into advanced stages of Adrenal Fatigue that could have been avoided if a good

recovery program has been followed early on.

Adrenal Exhaustion Recovery Patterns

While recovery phases of stage 1 and 2 Adrenal Fatigue are relatively uneventful, those in Stage 3

Adrenal Fatigue (Adrenal Exhaustion) usually find recovery very challenging. The body's intrinsic

constitution plays a big role in determining the Recovery Phase outcome. The more advance

the Adrenal Fatigue, the more varied is the recovery pattern. This is especially true of those in

stage 3C or 4 Adrenal Fatigue. Those who have strong adrenal constitution do recover faster

and the recovery is sustained when compared to those who have weak adrenals. Those with

very weak constitution and severe stress may suffer crashes and never fully recover but continue

going downward in a path of decompensation. There is no laboratory test to forecast the body's

constitution. Knowing whether you have a strong, normal or weak body constitution plays an

important role in Adrenal Fatigue recovery planning because the pattern of recovery and the

kind of nutrients required differ depending on the type of body constitution. The more

advanced the Adrenal Fatigue, the more important the body constitution plays a role in determining

the ultimate natural progression of the condition.

The following depicts how the body's intrinsic adrenal constitution affects the recovery pattern in

people suffering from stage 3C Adrenal Fatigue:

No where is it more important to study the recovery pattern than in Adrenal Fatigue Stage 3,

especially Phase C because of the variety of possible recovery outcome. The natural

progression for those with normal constitution is one of slow deterioration over a period of

time (Pattern 5). However, the time can be lengthened if the intrinsic body constitution is

strong (Pattern 6). The goal is to extend the time as long as possible and the deterioration

pattern to be slowed as much as possible. This is best achieved by a personalized recovery

program (Pattern 7). Those with very weak constitution tend to fair worse (Pattern 1).

Unfortunately, excessive and inappropriate use of natural stimulatory compounds commonly

employed by those who are in self-navigating mode (Pattern 3), as well as the aggressive use

of prescription medications (Pattern 4), often worsen the final outcome of many Adrenal

Exhaustion recovery cases. Eventually, this will push the sufferer into adrenal failure far

earlier than if nothing is being done and let nature takes its course (Pattern 5). In other words,

matters are often made even worse.

Fortunately, regardless of which recovery pattern is being followed, the body is generally

forgiving. The key is to mimic the recovery curve as close as possible to Pattern 7. With the

right professional help, the body's damage can often be reversed and nurtured back to health.

The following table summarizes the above discussion:

Importance of Understanding the Adrenal Crash and Recovery Cycle

It is easy to identify a major adrenal crash by the various symptoms. There is no mistake when a

crash occurs unless it very minor. The majority of pre-crash symptoms are exacerbated and

magnified greatly. Recovery, however, is much less obvious and can be confusing. It comes on

insidiously, slowly and often time marred with setbacks. This is made more complicated if the body's

constitution is weak. The signs are sometimes hard to detect, and often only become evident with

time. Paradoxical symptoms are common, especially for those with weak constitution. Only with long

clinical experience, attention to detail, and retrospect does one see a Recovery Phase with clarity.

While most Adrenal Fatigue sufferers are familiar with adrenal crash from personal experiences,

most are unfamiliar with the importance of the Recovery Phase of the cycle. A recovery may be

real, or maybe a prelude of a forthcoming crash in disguise. In other words, the worse may be

over, but it may be yet to come. The ability to recognize whether the body is following an

accelerated, normal or delayed recovery curve as well as whether the body's constitution

strong or weak all play important roles to a properly formulated recovery plan.

The management of adrenal crash and adrenal recovery are very different. Administration of

nutrients and adjustment of dosages designed to help recovery, if dispensed improperly

during the crash phase, may in fact worsen the crash. On the converse, proper application of

nutrients during the crash phase can lead to a softer landing and faster recovery. Under

expert management, adrenal crash may also present as an opportunity to help the body

propel directly into the honeymoon period, bypassing the stabilization and preparation

period.

Similarly, nutrients required during recovery can be very different from those during the

adrenal crash. The focuses are different not only as it relates to crash vs. recovery, but also as it

related to each person's unique constitution. During adrenal crash, the focus is to avoid further

damage and soften the crash intensity. During the Recovery Phase, the focus is to deploy nutrients

to fortify the adrenals to the degree that they can tolerate and clear from the body without triggering

another crash due to the often-associated low clearance state. Sometimes the nutrient dosage

needs to be reduced during the adrenal crash phase and increased during the Recovery Phase.

Other times, it is the reverse. Administering the wrong nutrient and dosage at the wrong time

will only worsen the overall Adrenal Fatigue and delay recovery. Understanding the recovery

cycle and using properly designed challenges during the right time of the recovery greatly

facilitate the overall healing process.

In addition, a careful study of the Recovery Phase of the cycle is critical because the speed

and character of the Recovery Phase as shown by the recovery curve is a direct reflection of

the amount of adrenal reserve remaining after a crash. Some people recover relatively quickly

compared to others. Younger sufferers and those who are constitutionally strong tend to recover

faster and can tolerate a stronger support of nutrients, while too strong a nutritional support during

Recovery Phase can trigger adrenal crash among others, especially those who are constitutionally

weak. The common mistake seen in many self-guided recovery programs is the administration of

excessive nutrients under the mistaken belief that more may be better. The many recovery

characteristics shown by the body is the only way the body knows how to express the overall

adrenal capacity and the degree of decompensation as a result of a crash. A detailed study of the

recovery and its various components allows us to understand the many paradoxical

reactions that are common during crashes and the ways to avoid them in the future in

relation to the specific body. Generally speaking, the stronger the adrenal function remains after

the crash, the shorter the Recovery Phase and the closer the post-crash energy level is to the

immediate pre-crash baseline. It is the careful attention to the recovery cycle that gives us the

markers and thus the ability to design a proper recovery program with accuracy and

confidence in order to facilitate maximum healing. The current Recovery Phase curve helps us

to formulate preventive measures so that the next crash, should it happen, is shorter, gentler, and

the ensuing recovery faster.

Those who do not pay attention to the lessons learned from the Recovery Phase invariably

will miss important clinical perils and thus lack a plan to handle future crashes. The result is

invariably a body that is subjected to repeated crashes over time.

Conclusion

One of the most difficult and perplexing challenges for clinicians and Adrenal Fatigue

sufferers is the management of adrenal crash and recovery cycles. Crashes are triggers that

bring sufferers to their physicians in the first place, and they will continue to haunt the sufferer

throughout the duration of this condition until their adrenal functions become normalized.

Unfortunately, most inexperienced clinicians and self-navigation efforts fail because of the

failure to fully understand the significance of the crash and its subsequent Recovery Phase

in detail. The body is communicating to us constantly. With each crash and recovery, signals

are sent by the body in the form of signs and symptoms. Clinical excellence requires a detailed

investigation and examination into the cause of each crash. Combining this with a careful clinical

study of the pre-crash status of adrenal function will give an experienced clinician a better

understanding of remaining adrenal reserve and capacity. A clearer picture will generally begin to

emerge and one will no longer be dumb-founded at why a crash happens in the first place. The body

is logical after all, if only we look deeper.

Understanding the crash and recovery cycle in detail and their characteristics will help the

clinician and sufferer better manage the crash as it happens, prepare a soft landing, set a

realistic recovery time, and select the proper tools to effect maximum adrenal healing in the

shortest time with minimum risk of triggering a subsequent crash. It also helps the sufferer to

understand the natural progression of Adrenal Fatigue and to have realistic expectations of

the road ahead.